Stuffed Tater Tots are a crispy, golden-brown delight filled with a delicious cheesy and savory center. These homemade tater tots take the classic snack to the next level by adding a rich and flavorful filling. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or game-day snack, these tots are sure to impress. The crunchy outer layer combined with a gooey, cheesy filling makes them irresistible. You can customize the filling with various ingredients like bacon, jalapeños, or even ground beef. Perfectly bite-sized, these tots are easy to make and even easier to eat. Try this recipe for the best homemade stuffed tater tots that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the russet potatoes.
- Place the grated potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
- Season the Mixture
- Transfer the dried grated potatoes to a mixing bowl.
- Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cornstarch.
- Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped jalapeños.
- Stir the filling ingredients together until well combined.
- Shape the Tater Tots
- Take a small amount of the potato mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
- Place a small portion of the cheese mixture in the center.
- Carefully shape the potato mixture around the filling, forming a small cylindrical shape.
- Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Coat the Tots
- Roll each stuffed tater tot in flour, then dip it into the beaten egg.
- Finally, coat it with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Repeat this process for all the tots.
- Fry the Tater Tots
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the stuffed tater tots into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the stuffed tater tots cool for a minute before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo.
- Enjoy the crispy outside and gooey, cheesy inside!
These homemade stuffed tater tots are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crispy exterior perfectly complements the warm, melty filling. Whether you customize them with bacon, jalapeños, or even a spicy twist, they’ll quickly become a favorite. Serve them at parties, game nights, or as a delicious side dish, and watch them disappear in no time!