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### Instructions for Savory Tater Tot and Sausage Skillet
#### Step 1: Cook the Sausage
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add **1 tablespoon of olive oil**.
2. Remove the sausage from its casing and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks in the skillet.
3. Brown the sausage, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked through and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
4. In the same skillet, add the **chopped onion** and **bell pepper** (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
5. Add the **minced garlic**, **smoked paprika**, and **chili flakes** (if using), then cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
#### Step 3: Cook the Tater Tots
6. Add the **frozen tater tots** to the skillet, spreading them evenly across the bottom. Don’t stir yet—let them cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the bottoms to crisp up before flipping them to cook on the other side.
7. Continue cooking the tater tots, flipping them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minutes in total.
#### Step 4: Combine the Sausage and Tater Tots
8. Once the tater tots are crisp and golden, return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together so the sausage and vegetables are well mixed with the tater tots.
9. Season with **salt and pepper** to taste.
#### Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
10. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle **shredded cheddar cheese** over the top of the skillet, then cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
11. Once the cheese has melted, garnish with **fresh chopped parsley** for a pop of color.
### Why This Recipe Works
– **Flavor-packed**: The combination of savory sausage, crispy tater tots, and the smoky flavor of paprika makes every bite a savory delight. The vegetables bring freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the sausage and cheese.
– **One-Pan Convenience**: This is a true one-pan meal—everything cooks together in the same skillet, from the sausage to the crispy tater tots. Not only does it simplify the cooking process, but it also means less cleanup afterward.
– **Versatile and Customizable**: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your tastes. Try using turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or mix in your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. If you’re a fan of spicy food, add jalapeños or extra chili flakes.
– **Kid-Friendly**: With its cheesy, crispy, and savory components, this skillet dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of meal that can please even the pickiest eaters.
### Tips for the Best Savory Tater Tot and Sausage Skillet
– **Make It Crispy**: For perfectly crispy tater tots, give them time to brown and crisp up in the skillet before stirring them. This will ensure a crunchy texture throughout.
– **Use a Nonstick Skillet**: If you have a nonstick skillet, use it for this recipe—it will help prevent the tater tots from sticking to the pan and make flipping them much easier.
– **Cheese Options**: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.
– **Add Greens**: If you’d like to add a bit of greenery, spinach or kale can be tossed in at the end and cooked until wilted for added nutrients.
### Conclusion
**Savory Tater Tot and Sausage Skillet** is the ultimate one-pan wonder, bringing together the comforting flavors of crispy tater tots and savory sausage with minimal cleanup. It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights when you want something hearty, delicious, and quick to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to enjoy a filling meal on your own, this skillet dish checks all the boxes.
Packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of indulgence, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation. So next time you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and fuss-free, give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!
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