Mini Burger Skewers with Tater Tot Buns

Mini Burger Skewers with Tater Tot Buns are a playful, crowd-pleasing twist on classic sliders. These bite-sized appetizers swap traditional buns for crispy tater tots, sandwiching juicy mini beef patties, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles. Served on skewers, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or family-friendly gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini burger skewers offer the full flavor of a cheeseburger in a fun and compact format. The contrast of crunchy tater tots with savory beef and creamy cheese makes them irresistibly satisfying. They’re quick to prepare, easy to assemble, and endlessly customizable—perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
• 36 frozen tater tots
• 6 lettuce leaves, cut into small squares
• 12 dill pickle slices, halved
• Mini skewers or toothpicks
• Optional: burger sauce or ketchup for dipping

directions

1. Prepare the Tater Tots
   Preheat oven and bake tater tots according to package directions until crisp and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Season and Shape the Beef
   In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
   Form into 12 small, flat patties about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook the Patties
   Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the mini patties for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
   In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle each patty with shredded cheese to melt.
4. Assemble the Skewers
   On each skewer or toothpick, layer in this order:
   • One crispy tater tot
   • A folded square of lettuce
   • A cheesy mini burger patty
   • Half of a dill pickle slice
   • Another tater tot
5. Serve
   Arrange skewers on a platter and serve immediately with dipping sauce such as ketchup, burger sauce, or spicy mayo.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 mini skewers
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 180 kcal per skewer

Variations

• Bacon Lovers: Add a small piece of crispy bacon to each skewer for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version: Use pepper jack cheese and add a slice of jalapeño.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute mini veggie patties and use plant-based cheese.
• Slider Style: Serve on small slider buns instead of skewers for a more traditional handheld format.
• Breakfast Style: Add a quail egg or mini hash brown for a breakfast-themed bite.

storage/reheating

These skewers are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the tater tots.

FAQs

Can I make the patties in advance?

Yes, shape and refrigerate the patties up to 24 hours ahead. Cook just before assembling.

Can I use pre-cooked tater tots?

Yes, but they should be crisp and heated before assembling for best texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, American, or any good melting cheese like Colby Jack will work well.

Can I bake the mini patties instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids love the mini size and the familiar burger flavors.

What sauce pairs best with these skewers?

Classic burger sauce, ketchup, ranch, or a spicy aioli all complement well.

Can I freeze assembled skewers?

It’s not recommended, as freezing and reheating will alter the texture of the tater tots and lettuce.

Can I serve these at room temperature?

They are best served warm, but they can hold at room temperature for 20–30 minutes without issue.

How can I make them more filling?

Serve alongside fries, coleslaw, or a salad for a complete appetizer spread.

What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party?

Place assembled skewers on a baking sheet and keep warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Mini Burger Skewers with Tater Tot Buns are a creative, satisfying twist on classic comfort food. With crispy tots, juicy beef, and melted cheese, these skewers are sure to be the hit of your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a fun family snack, this recipe delivers big flavor in a mini package.

Mini Burger Skewers with Tater Tot Buns

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Fun and flavorful mini burger skewers made with crispy tater tots instead of buns. Featuring juicy beef patties, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and pickles, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime snacking.

• Author: Mari
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 mini skewers 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking + Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
• 36 frozen tater tots
• 6 lettuce leaves, cut into small squares
• 12 dill pickle slices, halved
• Mini skewers or toothpicks
• Optional: burger sauce or ketchup for dipping

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and bake tater tots according to package directions until golden and crisp.
2. In a bowl, season ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 12 mini patties, about 1 inch wide.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook patties for 2–3 minutes per side, until cooked through. Add shredded cheese during the last minute to melt.
4. Assemble each skewer by threading on one tater tot, a folded piece of lettuce, a mini burger patty, a pickle slice, and another tater tot.
5. Serve immediately with burger sauce or ketchup on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Use a melon baller or spoon to portion ground beef evenly for uniform patties.
• Customize with cherry tomatoes or cooked bacon for variety.
• Best served warm for optimal crispiness and cheese melt.
• Great make-ahead tip: cook patties and tater tots in advance, then reheat and assemble before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg