Name: Plant-Based Meatloaf Burgers with Crispy Smashed Tater Tots
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: US & Canada
Ingredients: ¼ cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cider vinegar; 12 ounces plant-based ground meat; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme; ½ teaspoon pepper; 2 teaspoons plus 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil , divided; 1 cup frozen tater tots , thawed and patted dry; 4 hamburger buns , toasted if desired

Why This Recipe Works

We slather the tender patties with a sweet tomatoey glaze and, in a whimsical nod to the mashed potatoes so often served as part of a classic meatloaf dinner, we top each burger with smashed and pan-fried tater tots. The crispy, crunchy tater tot topping couldn't be easier—we just thaw a handful of store-bought tots before pressing them into the same pan we use to cook the burgers. As for the patties themselves, mixing some earthy, savory fresh thyme into the plant-based meat gets us on the right flavor path, and a splash of soy sauce adds umami depth. To drive the meatloaf flavor home, we mix up a traditional glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and cider vinegar (why mess with perfection?); brush a portion of this liquid magic directly onto the cooked patties; and reserve the rest for spreading over the bun tops.

Before You Begin

Serve with your favorite burger toppings.

Instructions

Whisk ketchup, sugar, and vinegar in bowl until combined.

Break ground meat into small pieces in large bowl. Add soy sauce, thyme, and pepper and gently knead with your hands until well combined. Using your moistened hands, divide meat mixture into 4 equal portions, then gently shape each portion into 3½-inch-wide patty. Transfer patties to plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Heat 2 teaspoons oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Transfer patties to skillet and cook until well browned on first side, about 3 minutes. Flip patties and continue to cook until browned on second side and meat registers 130 to 135 degrees, about 2 minutes. Transfer burgers to platter and brush with ketchup mixture.

Heat remaining 1½ tablespoons oil in now-empty skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tater tots to skillet and press with spatula or underside of dry measuring cup to flatten slightly. Cook until crispy and deep golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer tater tots to paper towel–lined plate.

Spread remaining ketchup mixture evenly over each bun top. Top burgers with tater tots and serve burgers on buns.