Save to Pinterest These loaded tater tots are golden and crispy, baked to perfection then topped with melty Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Crispy beef bacon bits add savory depth, while green onions and sour cream bring a fresh finish. Perfect for sharing, this easy dish combines rich flavors and textures that delight every bite.
Simply bake the tater tots until crispy, cook bacon bits until brown and crunchy, then layer cheese and bacon atop the tots for a melty, flavorful treat. Garnishes like tomato and parsley brighten the dish, creating an irresistible appetizer or snack.
The first time I made these loaded tater tots was during a frantic Friday night when my friends announced they were coming over in twenty minutes. I panicked, raided the freezer, and somehow ended up with what became the most requested snack at every gathering since. Something about the combination of crispy potato, melty cheese, and salty beef bacon bits just makes people forget all about fancy hors d'oeuvres.
Last Super Bowl, I made three batches of these and they disappeared before the kickoff even happened. My brother-in-law stood by the oven with a fork, claiming he was just quality testing, but we all know he finished off half the tray himself. Now whenever anyone asks what to bring to a party, I suggest these because they reheat surprisingly well if there are any leftovers.
Ingredients
- 800 g (28 oz) frozen tater tots: Do not thaw them first, they crisp up better when baked straight from the freezer
- 180 g (2 cups) shredded Cheddar cheese: Sharp Cheddar gives the best flavor punch against the mild potatoes
- 60 g (½ cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and creates those gorgeous cheese pulls
- 100 g (3.5 oz) beef bacon, finely diced: Beef bacon crisps up differently than pork and has a slightly sweeter flavor
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: The fresh bite cuts through all the richness
- 60 ml (¼ cup) sour cream: Room temperature sour cream spreads easier over hot tots
- 1 medium tomato, diced (optional): Adds a fresh juicy element if you want to cut the richness
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Mostly for color, but it does add a nice herbal note
Instructions
- Get the oven hot:
- Preheat to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Start the tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer without overcrowding, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden, flipping halfway through
- Crisp the beef bacon:
- Cook the diced beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy, then drain on paper towels
- Load them up:
- Remove tots from oven, sprinkle evenly with both cheeses, then scatter the crispy beef bacon bits over everything
- Melt it all together:
- Return to oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden in spots
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer to a serving platter and top with green onions, sour cream dollops, tomato, and parsley if using
Save to Pinterest These have become my go-to comfort food when I have had a rough day and just need something warm and cheesy. My youngest daughter calls them happy tots because they appear on the table mostly on celebration nights and special occasions. There is something nostalgic about tater tots that takes everyone back to childhood, but the grownup toppings make them feel like a proper appetizer.
Making Ahead For Parties
You can cook the tater tots and beef bacon up to a day in advance, then just reheat them before adding the cheese and finishing under the broiler. Keep everything in separate containers in the refrigerator and the texture stays remarkably good. I learned this trick when I had to prep for a big party and worried about everything getting cold.
Cheese Selection Tips
The combination of sharp Cheddar and mild Monterey Jack creates the perfect balance of flavor and meltability. Sometimes I throw in a little pepper jack for heat or swap in gruyere when I want to make it feel fancy. Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but grating your own from blocks melts so much better because it lacks the anti-caking coating.
Serving Suggestions
Set up a toppings bar and let everyone customize their own portion for a fun interactive element. These work alongside burgers, sandwiches, or even as a side to roast chicken for an elevated comfort meal.
- Pickled jalapeños add a perfect acidic kick
- A drizzle of ranch dressing instead of sour cream keeps things creamy
- Crispy fried egg on top makes it an unexpected breakfast hash
Save to Pinterest Hope these loaded tater tots become your new favorite way to turn a simple bag of frozen potatoes into something genuinely special.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of cheese work best with loaded tater tots?
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Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses melt well and add rich, creamy flavors that complement crispy tots beautifully.
- → Can I use turkey bacon instead of beef bacon?
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Yes, turkey bacon provides a lighter smoky taste and crisps nicely when cooked, making a good alternative.
- → What is the best way to make the tater tots crispy?
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Baking them on a parchment-lined sheet at 425°F and turning halfway ensures an even, golden crisp.
- → Are there vegetarian variations for this dish?
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Omit bacon bits and consider adding plant-based bacon alternatives or extra cheese for savory flavor.
- → How should I serve loaded tater tots for gatherings?
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Serve on a large platter with garnishes like green onions, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for easy sharing.
