Loaded Tater Tots
Crispy potato tots loaded with melted cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and a dollop of cool sour cream, finished with fresh green onions. The ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or bar food.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Frozen tater tots(Choose your favorite brand.)
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese(Shredded. A sharp cheddar will provide more flavor.)
- 8 strips Bacon(Cooked until crispy and crumbled.)
- 1/2 cup Sour cream(Full-fat sour cream is recommended for richness.)
- 2-3 stalks Green onions(Thinly sliced for garnish.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this will prevent them from getting crispy.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Bake the tater tots for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and very crispy. Flip them halfway through baking for even browning.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 3
While the tots are baking, cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces. Alternatively, bake the bacon in the oven alongside the tots.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Once the tater tots are crispy, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot tots.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil on high for 1-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Be cautious not to burn the cheese.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 6
Remove the loaded tater tots from the oven. Generously top with the crumbled bacon, dollop with sour cream, and sprinkle with sliced green onions.
⏱️ 1 minute - 7
Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is gooey.
⏱️ N/A
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra crispy tots, ensure they are in a single layer on the baking sheet and don't overcrowd.
- ✓Use a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of sour cream and bacon to your preference.
- ✓These are best served immediately after assembly to maintain crispness and melty cheese.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of your favorite chili before topping with cheese.
- Incorporate sliced pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Add cooked ground beef or pulled pork for a heartier dish.