In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased slow cooker. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
Top the beef mixture with an even layer of tater tots, arranging them in a single layer.
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Cover and let it melt.
Once done, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.