Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots are a delicious and indulgent treat that takes classic tater tots to the next level. The crispy exterior encases a melty, cheesy center with savory bacon, making them the perfect appetizer, snack, or party food. Whether served with dipping sauces or enjoyed on their own, these stuffed tater tots will be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen shredded potatoes (thawed)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
2. Add the flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Tater Tots

1. Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a small cylinder (tot shape).
2. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each formed tot on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Once all are shaped, roll them lightly in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 3: Fry the Tater Tots

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the tater tots in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the tater tots to cool slightly before serving.
2. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
3. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, bacon-stuffed tater tots!

Variations

• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños to the potato mixture.
• Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Loaded Tots: Serve with sour cream, green onions, and extra bacon bits on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 tater tots
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked tater tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry or bake from frozen.
• Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made tater tots instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought tater tots and stuff them with cheese and bacon by making a small incision and sealing them before frying or baking.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these tater tots?

Popular choices include ranch, ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed by the potato mixture and avoid overfilling.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes, but ensure they are well-drained to remove excess moisture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking, or freeze for later use.

How do I get extra crispy tater tots?

Double-coating them in breadcrumbs and frying at the right temperature ensures crispiness.

Are these tater tots vegetarian?

No, but you can make them vegetarian by omitting the bacon or using plant-based bacon.

Can I add herbs for extra flavor?

Yes! Try adding chopped parsley, chives, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra taste.

What’s the best way to shape uniform tater tots?

Using a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon helps create evenly sized tots.

Conclusion

Bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon flavor. They make the perfect party snack, side dish, or indulgent treat. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these homemade tater tots are sure to impress. Try them with your favorite dips and enjoy a crunchy, gooey bite every time!

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Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 24 tater tots 1x

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Description

Crispy bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots with a golden exterior and gooey, savory center. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these homemade tots are easy to fry, bake, or air-fry. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups frozen shredded potatoes (thawed)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
2. Add the flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Tater Tots

1. Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a small cylinder.
2. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each tot on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Roll each tot lightly in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 3: Fry the Tater Tots

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the tater tots in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the tater tots cool slightly before serving.
2. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo. Enjoy!

Notes

• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda.
• Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños.
• Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Loaded Tots: Serve with sour cream, green onions, and extra bacon bits.
  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: bacon cheese tater tots, stuffed tater tots, crispy tater tots, homemade tater tots, cheesy bacon tots