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Crispy Loaded Tater Tot Nachos

crispy loaded tater tot nachos - featured image

A quick and easy snack featuring crispy tater tots topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, jalapeños, and fresh toppings for a bold, comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (32 oz / 907 g) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 medium jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled)
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Sour cream for serving
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing the baking sheet

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on a greased baking sheet. Do not overcrowd. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning until crispy outside and tender inside.
  3. While tots bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
  4. Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to bloom the spices and develop flavor.
  5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly spread the seasoned beef over the tots. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese generously on top.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes more, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Garnish with sliced jalapeños and green onions. Add fresh cilantro if desired.
  8. Serve immediately with dollops of sour cream and optional sides like salsa or guacamole.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crispiness. Flip tots halfway through baking for even browning. Use fresh spices for best flavor. Brown beef well for richer taste. Watch cheese melting closely to avoid burning. Serve fresh and hot for best texture. Reheat leftovers in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: tater tot nachos, loaded nachos, crispy tater tots, ground beef nachos, easy snack, game day food, cheesy nachos