Loaded Tater Tots Recipe

Frozen tater tots: These are the base of the recipe, providing a crispy and delicious foundation.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, gooey texture and sharp flavor to the dish.

Cooked bacon: Provides a savory, smoky element that complements the other ingredients.

Sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy tater tots and melted cheese.

Green onions: Fresh and slightly pungent, they add a burst of color and flavor to the final dish.

For an extra crispy texture, consider using an air fryer instead of the oven. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the tater tots for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method ensures that the tater tots are evenly cooked and achieve a perfect golden-brown crunch.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with sweet potato tots: Sweet potato tots offer a slightly sweeter flavor and are often considered a healthier alternative due to their higher fiber content.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with cauliflower tots: Cauliflower tots are a low-carb option that can be a great substitute for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a milder flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a less sharp cheese.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack adds a bit of spice and can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• cooked bacon, crumbled - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option with less fat and calories, making it a healthier alternative.

• cooked bacon, crumbled - Substitute with vegetarian bacon: Vegetarian bacon provides a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture for those following a vegetarian diet.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier option with more protein and a similar tangy flavor.

• sour cream - Substitute with creme fraiche: Creme fraiche has a richer, creamier texture and can be used as a more indulgent alternative.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chopped chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct substitute.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chopped shallots: Shallots provide a slightly sweeter and more delicate onion flavor, adding a different nuance to the dish.

• Allow the tater tots to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled tater tots to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

• To freeze, arrange the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the tater tots are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the tater tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

• For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the tater tots less crispy.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want them extra crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tater tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
  4. Check to make sure they are hot and crispy before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the tater tots on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Note: This method may not keep them as crispy as the oven or air fryer.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the tater tots in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tater tots on the toaster oven tray in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are reheating evenly.
  4. Remove once they are hot and the cheese is melted again.

• Oven: Used to bake the tater tots until they are golden and crispy.

• Baking sheet: A flat surface to spread the tater tots in a single layer for even cooking.

• Spatula: Handy for spreading the tater tots and later for serving them.

• Cheese grater: Used to shred the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cooked bacon.

• Knife: Used to chop the green onions finely.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to mix the crumbled bacon and cheese before sprinkling on the tater tots.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet.

• Serving platter: Ideal for presenting the loaded tater tots once they are ready.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you gather your ingredients to save time.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to eliminate the need for extra cooking time.

Shred cheese in advance: Shred the cheddar cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Organize toppings: Have the sour cream and green onions ready to go before the tater tots are done baking.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup quicker and easier.