If you’re looking for bold, cozy comfort food that knows how to bring the party, Chili Cheese Tater Tots are about to steal the show. Imagine crispy golden tots piled high, drenched in savory homemade chili, and crowned with a glorious blanket of gooey cheddar. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on game day or treating yourself to a well-deserved treat at the end of a long week, this dish delivers on taste, color, and serious fun. Every bite combines crunch, spice, and cheesiness—the recipe hits all the right notes, and trust me, it never lasts long at my table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe leans on familiar, easy-to-find ingredients, but each one is essential for building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you need, plus a few tips on how each adds something special to Chili Cheese Tater Tots.
- Frozen tater tots (32 oz bag): Buy your favorite brand; their crispy exterior forms the irresistible base for the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté the aromatics, this brings a lovely richness.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds sweet and savory depth to the chili.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the chili with an aromatic kick; don’t skip it!
- Ground beef (1 pound): Brings hearty, meaty flavor to balance the cheesy, starchy tots.
- Kidney beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Add texture, color, and a plant-based protein boost.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Lend a touch of acidity and juiciness to the chili.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates tomato flavor, thickening the mixture perfectly.
- Chili powder (2 teaspoons): Provides warmth and that classic chili flavor profile.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle earthiness that makes the chili sing.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings smoky undertones and a gorgeous hint of color.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into glorious, gooey strings all over your Chili Cheese Tater Tots.
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, optional): Sprinkle these on top for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tots
Step 1: Bake the Tater Tots
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the tater tots out in a single, even layer on a baking sheet. Bake them according to the package instructions—typically 25 to 30 minutes—until they’re golden and ultra-crispy. The crunchier, the better, since the tots will stand up under all that hearty chili and cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Beef
While the tots are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about three minutes until soft and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned all over. If there’s excess fat, drain it off for a lighter, less greasy chili.
Step 3: Build the Chili Base
Stir in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, plus salt and black pepper to taste. Turn the heat down and let your chili simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This step blends all the flavors, thickens the sauce, and makes your kitchen smell absolutely incredible.
Step 4: Assemble the Chili Cheese Tater Tots
Once the tater tots are crisped to perfection, transfer them gently to a large baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Spoon the chili evenly over the tots, making sure each bite gets some of that hearty mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chili layer.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Slide the dish back into the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and gorgeous. Once it’s ready, you can finish with a shower of chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Tater Tots
Garnishes
Top your Chili Cheese Tater Tots with plenty of fresh green onions or chopped cilantro for a bright contrast to the rich, savory chili. Want to spice things up? Add sliced jalapeños, dollops of sour cream, or a little drizzle of hot sauce—these finishing touches make every plate look and taste even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
While this dish is definitely a star on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some fresh-cut veggies for a balanced meal. If you’re hosting a crowd, consider setting out bowls of guacamole, salsa, or corn on the cob to round out your Chili Cheese Tater Tots feast—everyone loves to graze between bites!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or game-day gatherings, serve the Chili Cheese Tater Tots in mini skillets or ramekins for a fun, individual treat. You can even try loading everything onto a big sharing platter, nacho-style, and letting friends dig in together. Another fun twist: layer the tots and chili in mason jars for grab-and-go convenience that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare around here), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. Chili Cheese Tater Tots will keep well for up to three days, but the tater tots may lose some of their original crunch as they soak up that chili goodness.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this dish for later! For best results, cool everything completely, then portion Chili Cheese Tater Tots into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. To avoid soggy tots, consider storing the chili and tots separately and assembling fresh before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy bite, reheat leftovers in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F until the cheese bubbles and everything is heated through. The microwave will work in a pinch, but the tots won’t have the same satisfying crunch. If you froze your portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for an even texture.
FAQs
Can I make Chili Cheese Tater Tots vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground or extra beans. The flavors are just as hearty and delicious, and no one ever seems to miss the meat.
What’s the best cheese for topping?
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and brings lots of flavor, but you can switch things up—try Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Can I make the chili ahead of time?
Yes, making the chili portion ahead is a great meal-prep move! Store it in the fridge for up to three days, then assemble and bake with the tots and cheese when you’re ready to serve.
How do I make this dish spicier?
If you crave some heat, toss diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the chili as it simmers, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Are there gluten-free options?
Definitely! Most tater tots are naturally gluten-free, but always check your labels on both the tots and canned goods to be sure. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy Chili Cheese Tater Tots without worry.
Final Thoughts
This is the kind of dish that guarantees smiles and second helpings—whether you call it comfort food or party food, Chili Cheese Tater Tots bring the fun and flavor every time. Grab your ingredients, gather your favorite people, and get ready for a cozy, cheesy masterpiece that always satisfies. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a new favorite at your house!
