1. Prepare the tater tot buns:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
• Arrange the tater tots in pairs on the baking sheet. Gently press each pair together using the back of a spoon to form a flat “bun” shape.
• Spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even crispiness.

2. Make the burger patties:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined.
• Divide the mixture into 12 small patties, about the size of the tater tot buns.
• Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 2–3 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.

3. Melt the cheese:

• During the last minute of cooking, place a square of cheddar cheese on each patty and let it melt.

4. Assemble the mini cheeseburgers:

• Place one tater tot bun on a serving plate. Add a burger patty with melted cheese on top, followed by a pickle slice, and a small dollop of ketchup or mustard if desired. Top with another tater tot bun.
• Secure each mini burger with a toothpick.

5. Serve:

• Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.