1-First, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat helps crisp up those potato tots perfectly. Begin by browning the 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes, using a wooden spoon to break it up.

2-Next, add the ½ diced onion, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies are tender, which takes just a few more minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat and return the skillet to the stovetop for the next part.

3-Then, stir in the ¾ cup ketchup, ½ cup water, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon prepared mustard, a pinch of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer over medium-low heat until it thickens slightly, blending those flavors together.

4-After that, arrange the 30 to 40 frozen potato tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture for that signature crispy topping. Pop the skillet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tots are golden and crispy. Finally, sprinkle on the 1 ½ cups shredded colby jack cheese and bake for another 5 minutes until it melts. Garnish with the 2 tablespoons sliced green onions before serving.