Introduction
Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are a delicious and indulgent twist on the classic tater tot. These crispy, golden, and bite-sized treats are stuffed with crispy bacon and gooey melted cheese, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving something comforting, these stuffed tater tots will surely satisfy your taste buds. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 bag frozen tater tots (about 20-24 pieces)
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
1 egg (for coating)
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Vegetable oil (for frying, if frying)
Instructions
Prepare the Tater Tots: Bake the frozen tater tots according to the package instructions, or cook them in an air fryer until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well-combined.
Stuff the Tater Tots: Once the tater tots have cooled slightly, use a sharp knife to make a small slit on one side of each tot. Gently scoop out a small portion of the center of each tot to create space for the filling.
Stuff with Bacon and Cheese: Using a spoon, stuff each tater tot with the bacon and cheese mixture.
Coat the Tater Tots: Set up a breading station by placing flour, a beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Roll each stuffed tater tot first in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
Fry the Tater Tots: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat. Fry the stuffed tater tots in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the tater tots from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Description
These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. The richness of the bacon pairs wonderfully with the gooey cheddar cheese, making each bite a flavorful experience. The cream cheese adds a smooth texture, while the crispy breadcrumbs make the outside incredibly crunchy. Whether baked or fried, they are sure to be a hit!
Tips
Baking vs. Frying: For a healthier option, bake the tater tots rather than frying them. Baking still gives you a crispy texture but with less oil.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed tater tots ahead of time and freeze them. When ready to cook, just fry or bake directly from frozen.
Dipping Sauces: These tater tots pair great with dipping sauces like ranch, buffalo sauce, or even a creamy garlic dip.
For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the bacon and cheese mixture for more flavor depth.
Corrections
Ensure you use freshly cooked bacon to achieve the desired crispiness and flavor.
If you prefer a healthier version, consider baking the tater tots instead of frying them.
For a smoother texture in the stuffing, be sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
When stuffing the tater tots, be careful not to overstuff them, as they might break open while cooking.
