Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (2-pound) package frozen tater tots
• 1 onion, sliced into petals
• 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 (12-ounce) box frozen sandwich beef, such as Steak-umms, crumbled
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and arrange the tater tots on the sheet in a single layer.

Step 2: Bake the tater tots in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

Step 3: While the tater tots are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 4: Add the crumbled beef to the skillet, followed by the Worcestershire sauce and Montreal steak seasoning. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked and most of the liquid has evaporated.

Step 5: Once the tater tots are done, remove them from the oven. Use a slotted spoon to divide the beef and vegetable mixture over the baked tater tots.

Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture.

Step 7: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 542
• Fat: 29g (37% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (48% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 68mg (23% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1047mg (46% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 25g (51% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 35mg (39% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 245mg (19% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (14% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 727mg (15% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots

The Philly cheesesteak smothered tater tots are a playful twist on the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich, which originated in the 1930s. Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, is credited with creating the original cheesesteak by grilling thinly sliced beef and serving it on a long roll. Over time, the sandwich became a symbol of Philadelphia cuisine, celebrated for its simple yet indulgent combination of beef, onions, and melted cheese. The idea of smothering crispy tater tots with the same filling is a modern reinterpretation that combines comfort food elements from different American culinary traditions.

Regional Variations

While the original Philly cheesesteak is firmly rooted in Philadelphia, the smothered tater tots variation is popular across the United States, particularly in casual dining and sports bars. Regional adaptations often include swapping mozzarella with Cheez Whiz or provolone, adding sauted mushrooms, or incorporating spicy peppers. In the South, its common to serve the dish with barbecue-inspired sauces, while West Coast versions may feature avocado or pepper jack cheese for a twist on the classic flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

This dish stands apart from traditional loaded fries or nachos because the base is crispy tater tots instead of fries or tortilla chips. Unlike a classic Philly cheesesteak served in a sandwich, the tots version offers a fork-and-knife experience, with the steak and cheese layered over bite-sized potato pieces. This creates a textural contrastcrunchy tots beneath savory, gooey cheese and seasoned beefthat distinguishes it from other comfort food variations.

Where Its Typically Served

Philly cheesesteak smothered tater tots are most often found in casual dining establishments, sports bars, food trucks, and diners. They are particularly popular as a late-night snack or a hearty appetizer during sporting events. Some restaurants also serve them as a shareable plate, making them ideal for gatherings where people enjoy dipping and piling bites onto their plates.

Interesting Facts

• The concept of smothering tater tots with toppings likely gained traction in the 1980s and 1990s as totchos (tater tot nachos) became a novelty item in American cuisine.
• Philadelphia locals often debate the right cheese for cheesesteaks, and this debate extends to smothered tots, with purists favoring provolone or Cheez Whiz over mozzarella.
• This dish exemplifies the trend of transforming classic sandwiches into shareable, layered comfort foods that appeal to both nostalgia and creativity.
• Despite its indulgent appearance, the dish can be made at home in under an hour, making it accessible for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
• Many modern versions experiment with toppings like caramelized onions, jalapeos, or even truffle oil, showing the versatility of the basic concept.

FAQ about Philly Cheesesteak Smothered Tater Tots Recipe