Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers

Tater Tot Cheeseburger Sliders are the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining the juicy flavors of cheeseburgers with the crispy goodness of tater tots. These sliders are packed with seasoned beef, melted cheddar cheese, and mashed tater tots, topped with tangy ketchup, mustard, and pickles, all nestled between soft slider buns. Perfect for a casual dinner, party appetizer, or family meal, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup tater tots, cooked and mashed
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup mustard
• 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, mashed tater tots, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Form the mixture into small patties, approximately the size of your slider buns, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are fully cooked through.
5. Serve the patties on slider buns with your favorite condiments and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Cheese Options: Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for other varieties like American cheese, Swiss, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this slider.
• Toppings: Customize your sliders with other toppings like lettuce, tomato, or sautéed onions for added flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the patties in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 30-60 seconds until heated through.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use frozen tater tots? Yes, frozen tater tots work perfectly. Just cook them according to the package instructions before mashing.
3. Can I cook these sliders on the stovetop instead of the oven? Yes, you can pan-fry the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
4. Can I freeze the patties? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Can I use a different type of meat for these sliders? Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor.
6. How do I know when the patties are cooked through? The patties are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one open to ensure it’s no longer pink in the center.
7. What kind of buns are best for sliders? Soft, small slider buns work best, but you can also use mini brioche buns or whole wheat buns for a different twist.
8. How do I make these sliders more flavorful? Add seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for added depth of flavor.
9. Can I add bacon to these sliders? Absolutely! Crispy bacon strips make a great addition to these sliders for a smoky, savory touch.
10. Can I make these sliders without cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to suit dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Cheeseburger Sliders are a fun and satisfying twist on the classic cheeseburger. With their crispy tater tot filling, melted cheese, and savory beef, these sliders are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a game day snack, a casual family dinner, or a party appetizer, these sliders are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Simple, customizable, and absolutely delicious!

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