Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
If you have a craving for something hearty, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe. Picture crispy, golden tater tots piled high with rich, slow-simmered chili that bursts with bold spices and topped with a generous sprinkle of melted cheddar cheese. This dish combines comfort food classics into one irresistible bite, making it perfect for game day, casual dinner nights, or anytime you want to indulge in something delicious and fuss-free. The marriage of textures and flavors in this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe will make it an instant favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe lies in some simple but incredibly essential ingredients. Each one brings a unique flair: the spices build warmth and depth, the beef contributes a savory richness, the tomatoes add brightness and tang, and of course, the tater tots provide that perfect crispy base to soak up all the goodness.
- 1 teaspoon oil: For browning the beef and softening the onions without sticking.
- 8 ounces ground beef: The hearty and flavorful protein that forms the chili base.
- 1/2 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that punch of savory, pungent goodness.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: The essential spice blend that defines chili’s character.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth to the chili flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: A slight citrus note that lifts the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Smokiness and vibrant color in each spoonful.
- 10 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Creates the rich tomato sauce base for the chili.
- 1 cup beef broth: Intensifies the meaty flavor and helps simmer the chili to perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances every ingredient.
- 4 cups tater tots: Crispy little nuggets that soak up all the chili and cheese wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly on top and adds that classic cheesy kick.
How to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating 1 teaspoon of oil in a medium stockpot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and crumble it up as it cooks. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and blend into the meat. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is nicely browned and the onions turn translucent. Don’t forget to drain the excess oil at this point — it keeps the chili from getting too greasy.
Step 2: Build the Chili Flavor
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, coriander, and paprika for a bold spice base. Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about an hour. As it cooks, the chili thickens and the flavors meld wonderfully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and season with salt and pepper to taste once it’s nearly done.
Step 3: Prepare the Tater Tots
While the chili is simmering, it’s a great time to get the tater tots ready. Follow the package instructions for baking or air-frying until they are golden and crispy. These little bites will be the perfect crunchy contrast to the rich chili topping.
Step 4: Assemble and Cheese It Up
Once the tater tots are crispy and the chili has thickened to a luscious consistency, it’s assembly time. Lay the hot tater tots on a serving platter or plates, spoon the chili generously over them, and then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. The warmth of both will melt the cheese beautifully, creating that gooey, irresistible finish to your Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe from delicious to dazzling, add some vibrant garnishes. Fresh chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of diced jalapeños bring freshness, creaminess, and a hint of heat respectively. A sprinkle of cilantro or crushed tortilla chips adds extra texture and a pop of color that makes the dish feel even more festive.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but if you want to balance the meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp garden salad or some steamed veggies to lighten things up. A side of cornbread or garlic bread can complement the southwestern flavors beautifully and provide a comforting carb reset after those hearty tots and chili.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual get-together or game day, try serving the Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe in individual small cast iron skillets or mini oven-safe dishes. You could even layer the chili and tots in a baking dish and broil with extra cheese to create a melty casserole that’s perfect for sharing. No matter how you present it, this recipe turns snack time into an event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The chili and tots store separately best to keep the tots from losing their crispiness. When ready to eat, simply reheat and assemble as usual.
Freezing
The chili component freezes wonderfully on its own. After cooking and cooling, transfer the chili to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you want some Chili Cheese Tater Tots, just thaw and warm the chili before topping your freshly cooked tots.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Crisp up fresh tater tots in the oven or air fryer, then combine and add cheese to melt. This way, you keep the textures perfect without sogginess.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils for a vegetarian-friendly chili. The spices and tomato base still bring fantastic flavor that works just as well with tater tots.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic for its meltability and tangy flavor, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even a blend of cheeses for a richer experience.
Can I use frozen chili instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought or previously made chili can be a convenient shortcut. Just heat it thoroughly and spoon it over crispy tater tots with your cheese of choice for an easy version of this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Check that your chili powder and beef broth are gluten-free, and most frozen tater tots are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check labels to be sure. This recipe can easily fit a gluten-free diet.
How spicy is this dish?
The chili uses a mild to medium spice level thanks to the chili powder and paprika. You can adjust the heat by adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe is like bringing a little celebration to your kitchen—comfort food at its finest with layers of flavor and texture that delight every bite. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these cheesy chili-loaded tots are sure to impress and satisfy. So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl, and prepare to have a new favorite on your hands that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Chili Cheese Tater Tots recipe combines crispy tater tots topped with flavorful homemade chili and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a comforting meal or satisfying snack, this dish features seasoned ground beef simmered with spices and tomatoes, served over golden tater tots for a deliciously indulgent comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Chili
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 10 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tater Tots & Toppings
- 4 cups tater tots
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Aromatics: Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a medium stockpot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and crumble it as it cooks. Then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens and the beef is browned. Drain any excess oil from the pot.
- Simmer the Chili: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, coriander, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 1 hour. Stir occasionally and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Tater Tots: Heat the tater tots according to the package directions, ensuring they become crispy and golden brown.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the cooked tater tots on plates or a serving dish. Spoon the hot chili generously over the tots, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to melt slightly from the heat. Serve immediately for a comforting and delicious dish.
Notes
- You can use frozen tater tots for convenience; bake or air fry according to package instructions for best results.
- For a spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños in Step 2.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve more people.
- Leftover chili can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated as needed.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein or cooked lentils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
