You've just found THE BEST Chili-Cheese Tater Tot Bake recipe! This cheesy baked casserole is made with ground beef and makes an easy week night dinner and make-ahead meal. When you take this comfort food casserole to your next potluck dinner, be ready to share the recipe!
a bit of canola oil, for browning the sliced hot dogs
1lb.lean ground beef
1/2tsp.granulated onion
2tsp. chili powder
1Tbs.Worcestershire sauce
8oz.Hunt's Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce, or use plain tomato sauce and add 1/2 tsp. granulated garlic
1/4cupketchup
1/2 lb. tater tots
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
sour cream, scallions, salsa, for garnish, as desired
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat; add the sliced hot dogs, browning them off on all sides; remove the hot dogs from the skillet and reserve.
Add the ground beef to skillet, along with granulated onions and spices; crumble the beef, cooking over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink and is fully cooked throughout; drain fats.
Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce and ketchup to the ground beef mixture, stirring to combine. Add the reserved hot dogs to the skillet; simmer for a few minutes over medium heat.
Meanwhile, brown the tater tots on a baking sheet to get them nice and crispy. Place the crispy tater tots into a greased casserole dish; cover the tater tots with the prepared chili mixture.
Bake, uncovered, on center rack of the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until hot throughout. Sprinkle with cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking time. Serve garnished with toppings, as desired.