Tot Sliders Recipe: A Fun and Healthy Twist on a Classic
INTRODUCTION
Tot Sliders are a fun, delicious, and nutritious twist on traditional sliders. These bite-sized goodies are made using crispy potato rounds layered with juicy beef, cheese, and condiments that your entire family will love. What’s great about this recipe is that it can easily fit into a healthy lifestyle while still delivering on flavor. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a family dinner, these sliders are a wonderful option that everyone can enjoy.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
One of the standout features of Tot Sliders is that they are a great for meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, making it easy to whip them up for a quick weeknight dinner. The use of crispy potato rounds (instead of traditional buns) creates a lighter option while still feeling satisfying. Plus, this recipe allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a high-protein meal that is low in calories and carbs compared to regular burger sliders.
HOW TO MAKE Tot Sliders
Making these Tot Sliders is straightforward and fun. You’ll enjoy the process as much as you’ll love the final result. Here’s how to create your own batch of these delightful bites.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Baking pan (10×15-inch)
- Skillet
- Waxed paper (for shaping beef patties)
- Toothpicks for assembly
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 32 frozen potato rounds (such as Ore-Ida Crispy Crowns)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 ounces ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 tablespoon ketchup, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon mustard, or to taste
- 16 pickled gherkins, drained
- 16 toothpicks
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
- Toss the potato tots with vegetable oil on the baking pan. Spread them into a single layer.
- Bake the tots in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are browned and crispy.
- While the tots bake, place the ground beef on a sheet of wax paper.
- Top the beef with another sheet of wax paper and press it into a rectangle that measures about 4×6 inches.
- Remove the top sheet and sprinkle the beef with kosher salt and black pepper. Cut it into sixteen 1×1 1/2-inch rectangles.
- Break each slice of cheese into quarters and fold each quarter to create 16 double-layered cheese pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef rectangles for about 3 minutes until one side is browned.
- Flip the burgers, add cheese on top, and cover the skillet. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the cheese melts, about 3 more minutes.
- To assemble, start with one potato tot. Place a cheeseburger on top, add ketchup, mustard, a pickle, and then top with another tot. Secure the stack with a toothpick.
- Repeat this with the rest of the ingredients.
HOW TO SERVE Tot Sliders
Tot Sliders are best served warm right out of the oven. For portion control, consider serving each person two to three sliders along with a side salad or steamed vegetables to maintain a healthy balance. Pair these sliders with light condiments like homemade avocado sauce or Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to keep the dish nutritious and low in calories.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Tot Sliders
If you have any leftovers, you can store the assembled Tot Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the individual components. Freeze the rolled beef patties and the potato tots separately. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and reassemble the sliders, then heat them in the oven until warm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
To balance your Tot Sliders, try serving them with a fresh garden salad or a side of mixed vegetables. This adds fiber to your meal while keeping it low calorie. Consider a light vinaigrette for your salad to enhance the healthy elements of your meal.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier Version: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This will still provide a good protein source while being lower in fat, making them diabetic-friendly.
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High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: Use roasted cauliflower rounds instead of potato rounds for a gluten-free, low-carb experience. Serve with lean turkey or veggie patties for a high-protein option.
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Air Fryer Version: If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 400 degrees F and cook the potato rounds until crispy. This version can be quicker and results in less oil usage, making it a heart-healthy choice.
FAQs
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Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and assemble them right before serving. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights. -
How can I store leftover Tot Sliders?
Store any leftover assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, store the components separately in the freezer for longer storage. -
Are Tot Sliders suitable for a diabetic diet?
By using lean meats and controlling portion sizes, Tot Sliders can be modified to fit a diabetic-friendly diet. Opt for low-sugar condiments and limit toppings. -
How can I make these more suitable for weight loss?
Use lean meats and replace potato rounds with healthy vegetables. You can also control your portion sizes to create a satisfying meal that aligns with your weight-loss goals.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Tot Sliders
For those looking to make meal prep easier, consider preparing the ingredients ahead of time. You can shape the ground beef patties and freeze them, and you can also cook the potato rounds in advance. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and assemble your sliders. This allows you to enjoy a healthy version of a classic dish with minimal effort during the week.
In conclusion, Tot Sliders are a playful and health-conscious alternative to traditional sliders. They are not only quick to prepare but also adaptable to various dietary needs, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal while staying aligned with their health goals. Whether you are following a low-carb plan, a high-protein diet, or just trying to eat more healthily, these sliders can fit right into your lifestyle. Enjoy them at your next gathering, or keep them as a staple for a quick weeknight meal!
Tot Sliders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
- Toss the potato tots with vegetable oil on the baking pan. Spread them into a single layer.
- Bake the tots in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are browned and crispy.
- While the tots bake, place the ground beef on a sheet of wax paper.
- Top the beef with another sheet of wax paper and press it into a rectangle that measures about 4×6 inches.
- Remove the top sheet and sprinkle the beef with kosher salt and black pepper. Cut it into sixteen 1×1 1/2-inch rectangles.
- Break each slice of cheese into quarters and fold each quarter to create 16 double-layered cheese pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef rectangles for about 3 minutes until one side is browned.
- Flip the burgers, add cheese on top, and cover the skillet. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the cheese melts, about 3 more minutes.
- To assemble, start with one potato tot. Place a cheeseburger on top, add ketchup, mustard, a pickle, and then top with another tot. Secure the stack with a toothpick.
- Repeat this with the rest of the ingredients.