KylieChan
Novice Foodie
Do you also get hungry at midnight? You might want to try making chili cheese tater tots. It's one of my favorite midnight snack since it's easy to make and super tasty. Below's the recipe for it:
Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful snack or meal that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
For the Tater Tots:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
For the Chili:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef (or turkey, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup (120 g) canned kidney or black beans (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup (30 g) diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- 1/4 cup (30 g) sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Tater Tots:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the tater tots packaging (usually around 425°F / 220°C).
- Spread the tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake until golden and crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
2. Make the Chili:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and beans (if using). Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Chili-Cheese Tater Tots:
- Once the tater tots are crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer to an oven-safe dish or cast-iron skillet.
- Spoon the chili evenly over the tater tots. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Add Toppings:
- Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, and jalapeños (if desired).
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve directly in the dish with forks or as a dip with tortilla chips.
- Pair with a crisp salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful snack or meal that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in!