Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet

 Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet – Cheesy, Crispy, and Comforting in Every Bite!

 

If you’re craving a family-friendly, comfort food dinner that’s easy to make in just one skillet, this recipe is going to be your new favorite. Picture juicy ground beef simmered in a rich Sloppy Joe sauce, topped with a crispy golden blanket of tater tots, and finished with melted cheese that stretches with every forkful. It’s hearty, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible! 

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup ketchup (thick style works best)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 bag (about 32 oz / 900g) frozen tater tots
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-mozzarella blend)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Step-by-Step Instructions

 1 Cook the Beef

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

 2 Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

1. Reduce the heat slightly, then stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, and beef broth.
2. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
4. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.

 3 Add the Tater Tots

1. Remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Arrange frozen tater tots neatly on top of the beef mixture, covering the surface completely.
3. Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

4 Add Cheese and Finish

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot tater tots.
2. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely.
3. For extra golden cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

 Serving Suggestions

Serve hot straight from the skillet with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. This recipe makes 4–6 servings, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual weekend gathering.

 Tips for the Best Results

• Make it lighter: Swap ground beef for ground turkey.
• Add heat: Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
• Customize: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky twist.
• No oven-safe skillet? Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish before topping with tater tots.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan dinner – less mess, easy cleanup.
• Perfect texture combo – saucy beef, crispy tots, gooey cheese.
• Crowd-pleaser – kids and adults both love it.
• Customizable – adjust flavors to suit your family’s taste.

Final Note:
This Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet is more than just dinner – it’s comfort food at its finest. Easy to make, satisfying to eat, and guaranteed to be a hit at the table every time.