Crispy Loaded Tater Tots with Cheese and Bacon
A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy tater tots layered with sharp cheddar cheese and smoky bacon, perfect for a comforting snack or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Cook the bacon: Place the bacon slices on a separate baking sheet or skillet and cook until crisp, about 12-15 minutes in the oven or 7-10 minutes on the stovetop. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the tater tots: In a mixing bowl, combine the frozen tater tots with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange half the tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, until they start to get golden and crispy.
- Remove the baking sheet and sprinkle half the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tots, then scatter half the chopped bacon on top.
- Layer the remaining tots over the cheese and bacon, pressing down lightly. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon.
- Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the tots are crispy all over. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately with sour cream on the side for dipping.
Notes
Do not thaw tater tots before baking to keep them crispy. Layer cheese and bacon between tots for best texture and flavor. Broil briefly at the end for extra golden cheese. Reheat in oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving. Variations include vegetarian options by omitting bacon and adding mushrooms or caramelized onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 14
Keywords: tater tots, loaded tater tots, cheese and bacon, crispy tater tots, snack recipe, easy side dish, comfort food