Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

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01 - 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
02 - 1 (28 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
03 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
07 - 1/2 cup ketchup
08 - 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
09 - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
10 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
15 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven as specified on the tater tot package. Arrange tater tots on a baking tray and bake according to package instructions until crispy.
02 - In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until the beef is well browned and onion is softened.
03 - Add minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1 minute until the mixture becomes fragrant.
04 - Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Allow sauce to thicken for 5 minutes.
05 - Evenly layer the baked tater tots on top of the sloppy joe mixture, pressing gently into the sauce.
06 - Distribute shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
07 - Place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, monitoring closely, until the cheese melts and bubbles. Remove promptly to prevent burning.

# Notes:

01 - Opt for extra crispy tater tots to enhance the dish’s texture.
02 - Sharp cheddar cheese imparts a bold flavor; pepper jack can be used for added heat.
03 - Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lean alternatives to ground beef.
04 - Arrange tater tots closely together to avoid soggy areas.
05 - For a smoky profile, stir in a pinch of chipotle powder.