Ingredients
- Frozen Tater Tots: 1 bag (32 ounces / approx. 900g) – Choose your favorite brand; extra crispy varieties work exceptionally well.
- Hot Dogs (“Glizzys”): 6-8 all-beef or your preferred type of hot dogs, good quality makes a difference.
- Chili: 2 cans (15 ounces / 425g each) of your favorite chili (with or without beans, depending on preference). Alternatively, about 3.5 – 4 cups of homemade chili.
- Shredded Cheese: 3-4 cups (approx. 12-16 ounces / 340-450g) – A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack is highly recommended for meltability and flavor. Colby Jack or even a Mexican blend would also be fantastic.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: 1 tablespoon, for cooking the hot dogs (if pan-frying).
- Optional Toppings (Highly Recommended!):
- Sour Cream or Crema: For a cooling, tangy contrast.
- Chopped Green Onions or Chives: For freshness and a mild oniony bite.
- Diced Red Onion: For a sharper, crisp crunch.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For a spicy, vinegary kick.
- Fresh Cilantro: For a herby, bright note.
- Crumbled Cooked Bacon: Because bacon makes everything better.
- A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Tots:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your tater tot package, usually around 425°F (220°C).
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on a large baking sheet. For extra crispiness, ensure they are not overcrowded. You might need two baking sheets or to cook in batches if your sheet isn’t large enough.
- Bake the tater tots according to package directions, typically 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and very crispy. Flipping them halfway through can help ensure even cooking. The crispier, the better, as they will hold up to the toppings.
- Cook the “Glizzys” (Hot Dogs):
- While the tots are baking, prepare your hot dogs. Slice them into ½-inch thick rounds.
- You have a few options for cooking them:
- Pan-Frying (Recommended for best flavor): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the hot dog slices in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned and slightly crisped on the edges. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Grilling: If you’re already grilling, throw the slices on for a few minutes per side.
- Boiling/Microwaving: While possible, these methods won’t provide the same browning or texture, so pan-frying or grilling is preferred.
- Heat the Chili:
- In a saucepan, heat your chili over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If your chili is very thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency, but you don’t want it too runny.
- Assemble the Chili Cheese Glizzy Tots:
- Once the tater tots are perfectly golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. You can either:
- Option A (Sheet Pan Style – Easiest): Keep the tots on their baking sheet (if it’s oven-safe and suitable for serving, or transfer to a large oven-safe platter or casserole dish).
- Option B (Casserole Dish Style): Transfer the crispy tots to a 9×13 inch oven-safe casserole dish or a similar-sized oven-proof skillet.
- Ensure the tots form a relatively even base layer.
- Spoon the warmed chili evenly over the tater tots.
- Distribute the cooked hot dog slices generously over the chili.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend evenly over the hot dogs and chili, ensuring good coverage.
- Once the tater tots are perfectly golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. You can either:
- Melt to Perfection:
- Return the baking sheet or casserole dish to the oven.
- Bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and just beginning to turn golden in spots.
- If you like your cheese extra browned and bubbly, you can switch the oven to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes. WATCH CAREFULLY, as the broiler can burn things quickly. Keep the oven door ajar and don’t walk away.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Carefully remove the Chili Cheese Glizzy Tots from the oven. Let them sit for a minute or two – they will be incredibly hot!
- Now, it’s time for the fun part: garnishing! Sprinkle generously with your chosen toppings: a dollop of sour cream here, some chopped green onions there, a scattering of pickled jalapeños for those who like it spicy.
- Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One Normal Portion
- Calories: 650-850