Preheat Oven to 375°F.
In a large skillet melt 1 tbsp of butter and sauté diced white onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
To the same pan, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain off excess moisture if desired.
Add the frozen peas and carrots to the pan and sauté for another 5 minutes. Set aside.
In a saucepan add all of the sauce ingredients and cook until bubbly (do not boil).
Mix the sauce with the cooked ground beef mixture
In a 9x9 baking dish, layer the mixed ground beef, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese and top with the veggie tots.
Bake for 35-40 minutes uncovered until tots are crispy and golden brown.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese and bake for another 5-8 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Enjoy!