If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with the hearty warmth of a comforting chili, then you’ve hit the jackpot with this Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe. It’s the ultimate invitation to dig into layers of savory ground beef chili spooned generously over golden tater tots, all topped off with melted cheddar that pulls together all those delicious flavors. Whether you’re after a cozy weekend snack, game day treat, or a fun dinner, this recipe brings the perfect balance of textures and bold spices that will leave you reaching for seconds without a second thought.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but magic-makers. Each adds a crucial element—spices for depth, tater tots for crispy comfort, and cheese for that gooey, irresistible finish that makes this dish shine.
- 1 teaspoon oil: Helps brown the beef without sticking, building flavor from the start.
- 8 ounces ground beef: The hearty base that makes this chili filling and rich.
- 1/2 onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness and texture contrast to the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle punch of savory depth.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Provides the signature warm, smoky chili flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy undertones that enhance all the spices.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Adds a hint of citrusy brightness to balance richness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes mild heat and vibrant color.
- 10 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Forms a luscious, thick chili base.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the savory profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Crucial for adjusting flavors just right.
- 4 cups tater tots: The golden, crispy canvas that carries the chili and cheese.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top, sealing in all the flavors with creamy richness.
How to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
Step 1: Cook Ground Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating a teaspoon of oil in a medium stockpot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for an even, crumbly texture. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions soften and the beef turns a lovely browned color. This is where your base flavor really starts to build — don’t rush the browning process. Once cooked, drain any excess oil to keep the chili balanced and not greasy.
Step 2: Make the Chili
Now for the magic spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, coriander, and paprika, stirring to evenly coat the beef mixture. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then bring everything up to a bubble. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about an hour. This slow reduction allows the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to intensify, delivering that deep, slow-cooked chili taste you crave. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt and pepper near the end to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Tater Tots
While your chili simmers, go ahead and prepare the tater tots according to the package instructions. The goal is to get them perfectly crispy and golden—this texture contrast makes the dish sing when combined with the soft chili.
Step 4: Assemble Chili Cheese Tater Tots
Once the tots are ready and your chili has thickened beautifully, plate the tater tots and generously spoon the chili over them. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top right away so it starts to melt from the heat. This is the final irresistible step to bring together crunch, spice, and melty cheese goodness in every bite.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing Chili Cheese Tater Tots adds freshness and a pop of color that takes this comfort dish to the next level. Try topping with chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Each adds a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy chili.
Side Dishes
Keep it light and balanced with crisp sides like a simple green salad or coleslaw. These help cut through the richness of the chili cheese layers and refresh your palate. For something heartier, corn on the cob or roasted veggies pair beautifully and continue that cozy vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by serving the Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets or on a large platter for sharing. You could also turn this into a loaded nachos-style dish by adding jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. This dish is a great canvas for creative spins!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili is fantastic stored separately from the tater tots in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the tots from getting soggy and preserves the fresh texture when reheated. Use within 3 days for the best taste and quality.
Freezing
The chili part of the Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When ready to use, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat your assembled dish, it’s best to warm the chili on the stove or microwave first, then crisp up fresh tater tots in the oven. Assemble with cheese just before serving to enjoy melty, gooey perfection again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and delicious, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for spice, or even a blend that melts well. Just make sure it complements the chili’s flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices and toppings will still deliver that satisfying Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a moderate warmth thanks to the chili powder and paprika, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the chili powder amount or add a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
Can I bake the tater tots instead of frying?
Definitely! Baking tater tots is a great healthier option and still results in a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the chili and cheese.
Is this recipe good for parties?
It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! The generous, shareable nature of Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe makes it ideal for casual gatherings or game day. Just multiply ingredients as needed and maybe serve in individual cups or trays for easy snacking.
Final Thoughts
If you want a fuss-free recipe that packs maximum flavor and warm comfort, the Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe is an absolute winner. With crispy tots, spicy chili, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again for family nights or get-togethers. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this tasty classic!
Print
Chili Cheese Tater Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Chili Cheese Tater Tots recipe combines crispy tater tots with a rich, savory homemade chili made from ground beef, tomatoes, and warming spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting meal or a fun appetizer, this dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop and brings classic American flavors together with a satisfying cheesy finish.
Ingredients
For the 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
Other Ingredients
- 4 cups tater tots
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and vegetables: Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a medium stockpot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and crumble it as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion softens and the beef is browned. Drain any excess oil from the pot.
- Make the chili: Stir in chili powder, cumin, coriander, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the chili has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the tater tots: Prepare the tater tots according to the package instructions, typically baking or frying until golden and crispy.
- Assemble chili cheese tater tots: Place cooked tater tots on a serving dish, spoon the hot chili evenly over the tots, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and improve texture.
- Simmering the chili uncovered helps achieve a thicker consistency.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- This dish can be made ahead; reheat the chili and tater tots separately before assembling.
- For vegetarian variation, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
