Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tot Bake

We love tater tots around here. AND we love to eat chili. Here’s great simple recipe, that combines both of our favorites….. a little spicy, a little cheesy and a whole lot of tots.

Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tot Bake

1 lb. ground beef

1 small onion, diced

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. smoked paprika

1/2 tsp. Red pepper flakes

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 14 oz. can roasted tomatoes, diced

4 cups tater tots

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated

Pickled jalapenos

Cilantro and green onion for garnish

Preheat your oven to 420 degrees.

In a large oven proof skillet, saute the ground beef and onion, until browned and tender. Once the beef is browned and onion is tender and translucent, add the seasonings, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes and salt. Stir to combine and get the spices heating to release the flavor. Then add the roasted tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. The sauce will reduce slightly.

In the same oven proof skillet or cast iron skillet, top the beef mixture with a generous mound of tater tots. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, at 420 degrees. Remove from the oven and top with cheddar cheese, pickled jalapenos, and return to the oven for another 8-10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and top with diced green onion and cilantro if desired. Even a dollop of sour cream. Yum. Serve warm. Makes 8 servings.