Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

Crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, these Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food! Packed with cheesy goodness and smoky bacon, they’re perfect as a party appetizer, game day snack, or anytime indulgence.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about tater tots, especially when they’re filled with rich cheese and savory bacon. This recipe elevates the classic tater tot to new heights, making it not only a delightful snack but also a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. The combination of textures—from the crispy exterior to the melty interior—creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses or dipping sauces, making them versatile for any occasion.

Introduction

Tater tots have been a beloved comfort food for generations, often enjoyed as a side dish or a snack. But what if you could take this classic dish and stuff it with even more deliciousness? Enter Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots! This recipe combines the crispy, golden-brown exterior of traditional tater tots with a mouthwatering filling of gooey mozzarella cheese and savory bacon. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a party, or just craving a tasty treat, these stuffed tater tots are sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delectable bites, share tips for perfecting your tater tots, and provide insights on serving suggestions and nutritional information. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s not just food, but a celebration of flavor!

Ingredients:

4 cups (800g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (115g) cooked bacon, finely chopped
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
Vegetable oil, for frying

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Tater Tot Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until the ingredients are evenly combined. This mixture will serve as the base for your tater tots, providing flavor and structure.

Step 2: Form and Stuff the Tater Tots

Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully wrap the hash brown mixture around it to form a small, oval-shaped tot. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during frying. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes, placing the formed tater tots on a plate or baking sheet.

Step 3: Fry the Tater Tots

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is hot enough, you can drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to fry. Fry the tater tots in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tater tots and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the tater tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup. The combination of the crispy exterior and the gooey, cheesy interior will have everyone coming back for more!

Serving Suggestions:

These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a standalone snack or as part of a larger spread at your next gathering. They pair wonderfully with:

Dipping Sauces: Try serving with ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce.
Garnishes: Top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Accompaniments: Serve alongside a fresh salad, grilled meats, or as part of a game-day buffet.

Tips:

Crispier Tots: For extra crispiness, double-fry the tater tots. Fry them for 2 minutes, let them rest for 5 minutes, and fry again until golden.
Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead: Assemble the tater tots and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack, gouda, or your favorite melty cheese.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time: