Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food mashup! Crispy, golden tater tots are smothered in a flavorful Philly cheesesteak filling with tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and topped with melted cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or even as a hearty dinner. The combination of crispy tots and rich, cheesy steak filling will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Philly Cheesesteak Topping:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup provolone cheese or American cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the Tater Tots:

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Tater Tots:
   Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the tater tot package (usually 425°F/220°C). Spread the frozen tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

2. Cook the Philly Cheesesteak Filling:
   While the tater tots are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened.

   Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.

   Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If using, stir in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Tater Tots:
   Once the tater tots are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Transfer the tater tots to a serving dish or leave them on the baking sheet.

   Top the tater tots with the Philly cheesesteak mixture, ensuring that the beef, onions, and peppers are evenly distributed.

4. Add the Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded provolone or American cheese over the cheesesteak-topped tater tots. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or additional pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the top for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Swap provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or even a cheese sauce for a different cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or plant-based beef substitute for a meatless version.
• Different Toppings: Try adding a dollop of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of green onions for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, such as ribeye or even ground beef, but flank steak or sirloin are traditionally used for Philly cheesesteaks due to their tenderness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the Philly cheesesteak filling and bake the tater tots ahead of time. Assemble the dish and bake with cheese just before serving for the best texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian version of Philly cheesesteak.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, ensure that the tater tots you use are gluten-free. Most brands are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the packaging.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Can I use frozen peppers and onions?

Yes, frozen peppers and onions can be used in place of fresh ones for convenience.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots are a delicious and indulgent dish that brings all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak together in a fun, crispy form. The combination of perfectly cooked tater tots, savory steak, sautéed veggies, and melted cheese creates a comfort food experience everyone will love. Whether you serve it for game day, dinner, or a family gathering, these tater tots will quickly become a favorite!