Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 15 oz canned Sloppy Joe Manwich sauce
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 32 oz frozen tater tots
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium high and cook the 2 lbs ground beef until no pink remains and it's deeply browned.
  2. Add the diced onion and green pepper to the beef. Note: The residual fat helps soften the vegetables without extra oil.
  3. Stir in the 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Transfer the beef and veg to a colander to remove excess fat. This step is mandatory for a crisp topping.
  5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in the 15 oz Manwich sauce, 2 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let the mixture bubble for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat heavily.
  7. Spread the beef mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Arrange the 32 oz frozen tater tots in a single, tight layer across the top.
  9. Place in a 400°F (205°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until the tots are golden brown and crackling.
  10. Sprinkle the 2 cups of cheddar over the top and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
  11. Top with scallions and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.