Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots
Introduction
Crispy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy on the inside, Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food snack. Made with seasoned mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, these homemade tater tots are golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, game-day favorite, or fun side dish, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Crispy outside with a gooey cheese center
– Loaded with smoky bacon flavor
– Perfect for parties and game days
– Easy to make ahead
– Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Tater Tots
– 4 cups mashed potatoes, chilled
– 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Coating
– 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
Optional Dipping Sauces
– Ranch dressing
– Sour cream
– Spicy mayo
– Barbecue sauce
– Cheese sauce
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, flour, egg, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tater tot cylinders.
4. Roll each tot in the seasoned breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
5. To Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the tots for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. To Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
7. To Air Fry: Arrange in a single layer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips
– Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping.
– Freeze the shaped tots for 20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
– Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
– Freeze uncooked tots for up to 3 months and cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy tater tots with burgers, fried chicken, grilled steak, barbecue ribs, sandwiches, or as part of a game-day snack platter with wings, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings.
Conclusion
Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon flavor, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these irresistible homemade tots are guaranteed to become a family favorite.