Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 15 oz Manwich Original Sloppy Joe Sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 225 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 32 oz frozen tater tots
  • 2 tbsp melted salted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 3 minutes without stirring to develop a sear. Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until the meat is fully browned and vegetables are translucent.
  3. Thoroughly drain the rendered fat from the skillet. Stir in the Manwich sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce is thickened and velvety.
  4. Transfer the hot meat mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
  5. Top the meat base with shredded cheddar cheese. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese and brush the tops with melted salted butter.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the sauce is bubbling.