Step 1

Preheat oven to 425º F.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder and red pepper flakes.

Step 3

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet (or oven-safe pan) over medium-high heat and cook garlic, if using, for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 4

Add ground beef, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, then drain off fat.

Step 5

Pour sauce and pinto beans into beef, and stir until everything is evenly coated. Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until slightly thickened, then spread mixture into an even layer and top with 1 cup of cheese.

Step 6

Top with tater tots, then sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.

Step 7

Place skillet in oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until tater tots are crispy and golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 8

Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!