Tater Tot Appetizer Cups

These delightful bite-sized tater tot cups are an irresistible combination of crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, rich sour cream, crunchy bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfectly portioned for parties or game day gatherings, these little cups are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!

Why You Will Love This Recipe:

Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are not just a snack; they are an experience! Each cup offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy on the outside, cheesy and creamy on the inside, with the smoky crunch of bacon and the freshness of green onions. They are easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or even add different ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving a delicious snack, these tater tot cups will satisfy every craving!

Introduction:

As a food blogger and cookbook writer, I am always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare and share with friends and family. Tater Tot Appetizer Cups fit the bill perfectly. They are fun to make and even more fun to eat! The best part is that they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or casual get-togethers. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, these tater tot cups are bound to become a staple in your appetizer repertoire. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful treats!

Ingredients:

  • 48-60 frozen tater tots (16-oz bag)
  • 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, sliced (green part only)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450ºF (232ºC). This high temperature is crucial for getting the tater tots crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Spray the cups of a mini muffin pan (or a regular-sized muffin pan) with cooking spray to prevent sticking. If using a mini muffin pan, place 2-3 tater tots in each muffin cup. For a regular-sized muffin pan, use 4-5 tater tots per cup.

Step 3: Bake the tater tots on the bottom rack of the oven for 10 minutes. This initial baking will help them start to cook through before we form them into cups.

Step 4: After 10 minutes, remove the muffin pan from the oven. Take a shot glass or small juice glass, spray the bottom with cooking spray, and use it to press down on the tater tots in each muffin cup, forming little potato cups. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tater tots are deep golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Once the tater tots are perfectly baked, add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese to each potato cup. Bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Top each cup with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and any other desired garnishes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

These Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are fantastic on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. Pair them with your favorite beverages, like a cold beer or a refreshing soda, for the perfect party spread.

Tips:

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the tater tot cups in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them right before your guests arrive for a fresh and warm treat.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced jalapeños for spice, or different types of cheese for varied flavors. You can also swap out bacon for cooked sausage or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
  • Presentation: For an elegant touch, serve the cups on a beautiful platter and garnish with fresh herbs or additional toppings.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 2 cups):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 10g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion:

Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are a fun and delicious way to elevate your snacking game. They are simple to make, customizable, and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, these little cups of joy are the perfect addition to any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use homemade tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade tater tots! Just make sure they are cooked through before forming them into cups.

2. How can I make these tater tot cups vegetarian?
You can easily make these vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor.

3. Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the tater tot cups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven right before serving.

4. What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Other great toppings include diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tater tot cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness before serving.

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