Save to Pinterest This decadent tray of Mac and Cheese Chili Cheese Tots takes comfort food to the next level with layers of crispy tater tots, indulgent mac and cheese, rich chili, and heaps of gooey melted cheese. I turn to this recipe for game days and movie nights when everyone wants something fun and satisfying, trust me, every bite is pure nostalgia.
The first time I made these was for my brother’s birthday, ever since, he demands them for any get together. I love how everyone gathers in the kitchen just waiting for that cheesy tray to come out of the oven.
Ingredients
- Tater tots: Frozen tater tots crisp up beautifully and act as a sturdy base for all the toppings. Choose classic style for best crunch
- Elbow macaroni: Small macaroni shapes hold on to the creamy sauce well. Choose premium or bronze-cut if available for better texture
- Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour: Essential for a velvety roux that thickens your cheese sauce. Use fresh butter and high quality flour for smoothness
- Whole milk: Ensures a creamy and rich cheese sauce. Go for fresh full-fat milk
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Classic sharp cheddar gives bold flavor. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting quality
- Salt and ground black pepper: Balances and seasons both the mac and cheese and chili
- Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps soften onions. Choose extra virgin for richer taste
- Onion and garlic: Build a flavorful chili foundation. Pick yellow or white onions and firm garlic cloves
- Ground beef or plant-based alternative: Offers hearty protein and richness. Choose lean beef or a meaty meatless crumble
- Canned diced tomatoes: Provide balanced acidity and moisture. Fire roasted versions boost depth
- Canned kidney beans: Add protein and texture to the chili. Look for beans with a deep red color and creamy texture
- Tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika: Layer on warmth and subtle smokiness. Choose fresh spices for punchy flavor
- Monterey Jack or extra cheddar cheese: Extra layer of creamy melt on top. Good quality cheese melts best
- Green onions, chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeño: For garnish. Fresh herbs and spicy peppers lift the whole dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Tater Tots:
- Place tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at a high temperature so the tots get deeply golden and crunchy. Flip them halfway through their time so every side gets crispy
- Start the Chili Base:
- While the tots are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook slowly so the natural sweetness develops. After a few minutes, stir in garlic, letting it bloom its aroma without burning
- Brown the Protein:
- Add your ground beef or plant protein and break it up with a spoon. Let it brown fully to build those craveable caramelized notes. If using beef, drain off any excess fat so the chili is not greasy
- Simmer and Season the Chili:
- Pour in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, making sure the beans are coated and flavors combine. Simmer uncovered so the chili thickens and the flavor deepens
- Prepare the Macaroni:
- While the chili cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni just until tender but not mushy. Drain well so the sauce clings to each noodle
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for a minute letting the raw taste cook out. Slowly stream in milk whisking to avoid lumps. Let it gently simmer until thick. Stir in cheddar cheese off the heat whisking until creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and then fold in the cooked macaroni
- Assemble the Tots Tray:
- On a large platter or oven safe dish, arrange the baked tater tots in a single layer. Evenly spoon over the creamy macaroni and cheese. Pour chili across the top in generous scoops. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese over everything
- Bake to Finish:
- Pop the assembled tray back into the oven for a few minutes until all the cheese is melted and bubbling. Watch carefully so the topping gets gooey but not browned
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter sliced green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño over the hot tray. Add as much as you like for color and heat. Serve straight away so everyone gets the full experience of crispy hot tots loaded with creamy and spicy layers
Save to Pinterest When I first used smoked paprika in the chili here it brought a subtle campfire flavor that reminded me of backyard cookouts as a kid. It is my not so secret ingredient now because just a pinch makes this whole tray taste extra special. My family always insists on extra jalapeños on top and it never lasts more than a single night.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat single portions in a hot oven to crisp the tots again. Microwaving works in a pinch but will soften the base. Try to only garnish individual servings if you plan to store the dish.
Ingredient substitutions
Swap ground beef for crumbled tempeh or plant based crumble for vegetarian or vegan versions. Use pepper jack cheese for more smokiness or even mozzarella for extra melt. Canned black beans are an easy replacement for kidney beans if that is what you have.
Serving Suggestions
Pile everything into bowls and top with sour cream, hot sauce, or even pickled jalapeños. This dish is satisfying on its own but also pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or coleslaw for freshness. For a party, build a tray bar with toppings so guests can build their own versions.
Cultural and Historical Context
Loaded tater tots are a beloved American bar snack inspired by the fun of nachos and freezer aisle nostalgia. The combination of mac and cheese and chili echoes diner fare from the Midwest to the South. Layering these on crispy tots brings together the best of comfort food innovations from potlucks to Super Bowl feasts.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add charred corn or diced bell peppers in summer for extra sweetness. Use leftover holiday chili in the winter layer on top of the tots. Try swapping out traditional jalapeños for pickled red onions if you want something milder in fall.
Success Stories
A friend once took a tray of these to a college football party and not a crumb was left by halftime. It is now her signature dish for every big event. Kids love helping layer the tray and adding their own toppings.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prep the tater tots, chili, and mac and cheese separately then flash freeze each layer. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then assemble and bake just before serving to get fresh crispy textures. Each layer keeps about one month frozen.
Save to Pinterest This tray travels well so it is perfect for potlucks or tailgates where everyone wants something filling and shareable. Prep all the layers ahead and assemble just before baking. The more cheese on top the better.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar delivers a classic creamy texture and tang, but try Monterey Jack or smoked gouda for extra flavor.
- → Can I use plant-based meat for the chili?
Absolutely. Substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives or increase beans for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- → How do I keep tater tots crispy?
Bake tots until golden; flip halfway for even crispness. Assemble just before serving to preserve texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Prepare elements separately, then assemble and bake just before eating for best texture and taste.
- → Can spice level be adjusted?
Control heat by adding or omitting jalapeños and adjusting chili powder to suit personal preference.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Serve alongside fresh salad, pickled veggies, or a crisp lager for a balanced, satisfying meal.