1poundlean ground beefwe prefer grass-fed sirloin, with no more than 20% fat
2tablespoonschili powder
2teaspoonsground cumin
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoonkosher salt
½teaspoonblack pepper
6ouncestomato paste
14ouncescanned diced tomatoesundrained
1cupshredded cheddar cheese
30ouncesfrozen tater tots
optional (for a bit of heat)
1teaspoonred cayenne pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. If using a casserole dish, spray it with non-stick cooking oil and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally until they are translucent.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a hamburger chopper or wooden spoon over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
Add seasonings, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes, mixing together. If your skillet is oven-safe, continue on to the next step. Otherwise, add the mixture to a round or oblong casserole dish.
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly across the top. Then top the casserole with a layer of tater tots.
Bake at 400ºF uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the edges of the casserole are bubbly.
Remove casserole from the oven and let cool at least 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, sliced green onion, or parsley.
Notes
Make ahead instructionsFollow steps 2-5 in the instructions for a casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate casserole for up to 3 days. When ready, bake at 400º F for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the edges of the casserole are bubbly. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, sliced green onion, or parsley.