Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (454g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 package (approx. 1 oz/28g) onion soup mix
  • ½ bag (approx. 16 oz/454g) frozen tater tot crowns, prepared according to package directions (about 24-30 tots, depending on size)
  • 12 slices pre-cut cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
  • 12 small pieces green leaf lettuce (about 2 inches square each)
  • 12 sliced cherry tomatoes (thin slices)
  • 12 dill pickle slices (sandwich-style are great)

Instructions:

  1. Bake or air fry the tater tots according to package directions. Ensure they are crispy and golden brown. Let cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef and onion soup mix.
  3. Place the meat mixture between two sheets of parchment paper. Flatten it into an even layer about ¼ inch thick. Score the beef into 12 small squares, slightly larger than a tater tot. Gently separate the squares into individual patties.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the mini patties until browned and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F/71°C), flipping once.
  5. Top each cooked patty with a slice of cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt slightly over the warm patties.
  6. Use a toothpick or skewer to assemble each bite: tater tot base -> pickle slice -> lettuce piece -> tomato slice -> cheesy burger patty -> tater tot top.
  7. Arrange the assembled Tater Tot Mini Cheeseburgers on a platter and serve immediately with your favorite condiments.