Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tater Tots

  1. Bake or Air-Fry Tater Tots: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place tater tots on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket and cook according to package instructions, usually 20 minutes for baking or 15 minutes for air-frying. Tater tots should be golden and crispy.
  2. Set Aside: Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. These will serve as the “buns” for your mini cheeseburgers.

Step 2: Make the Mini Burger Patties

  1. Season the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout.
  2. Form Small Patties: Divide the seasoned beef mixture into 12 small patties, each about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, similar in size to the tater tots.
  3. Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook each mini patty for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a small amount of shredded cheese or a mini cheese slice to let it melt over the patty.

Step 3: Assemble the Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers

  1. Arrange the Tater Tot Base: Place one crispy tater tot on a serving tray to act as the bottom “bun” for each cheeseburger.
  2. Add the Mini Burger Patty: Place a cheesy mini burger patty on top of each tater tot.
  3. Add Garnishes: Add a piece of lettuce (optional) and a halved cherry tomato or pickle slice to each burger.
  4. Top with a Second Tater Tot: Place another tater tot on top to act as the “top bun.”
  5. Secure with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick through the center of each mini burger to keep all layers together.

Serving Suggestions

  • Arrange these bite-sized cheeseburgers on a serving tray with small dishes of ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise for dipping.
  • Garnish the tray with extra lettuce and cherry tomatoes for added color.
  • These mini cheeseburgers pair well with other party snacks like fries, onion rings, or a veggie platter.

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