These stuffed tater tots are a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or game day. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside!
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Tater Tots:
- 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- Cooking spray or oil
- Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chives
- Jalapenos
- Cheese sauce.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, green onions, sour cream (if using), garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Prepare the Tater Tots:
- Preheat oven according to the tater tot package directions. Usually around 425F (220C).
- Lay the tater tots on a baking sheet, and bake them for about half the time that is listed on the package directions. They should be slightly thawed, but not fully cooked.
- Stuff the Tater Tots:
- Remove the tater tots from the oven and let them cool slightly so you can handle them.
- Using a small knife or spoon, carefully make a small incision in the top of each tater tot.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, stuff each tater tot with the cheese and bacon filling. Be generous!
- Bake the Stuffed Tater Tots:
- Return the stuffed tater tots to the baking sheet.
- Spray the tops of the tater tots with cooking spray or lightly brush with oil.
- Bake for the remaining time specified on the tater tot package, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the filling is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chives, or jalapenos.
- Cheese sauce is also a wonderful dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Different fillings: You can use other fillings, such as pizza toppings (pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara), or a mixture of ground sausage and cheese.
- Air fryer: You can also cook these in an air fryer. Follow the same steps, but air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed tater tots ahead of time and freeze them. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.