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Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots


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

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!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 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