Tater tots are a beloved snack that brings back childhood memories, but when you stuff them with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, they become a next-level indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a game-day appetizer, a party snack, or just a delicious side dish, these Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Tater Tots will be the highlight of your meal. Their golden, crispy exterior gives way to a melty, cheesy center filled with savory bacon bits, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making these delicious stuffed tater tots at home. You’ll learn how to prepare the potato mixture, stuff them with bacon and cheese, shape them into perfect tots, and fry or bake them to golden perfection.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
For the Tater Tot Base
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Filling
- ½ cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
For Frying (Optional for Baking)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Cooking spray (for baking alternative)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the russet potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to achieving crispy tater tots.
- Transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Make the Tater Tot Mixture
- Add the cornstarch (or flour) and mix it well into the grated potatoes.
- Pour in the beaten egg and mix until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor and texture.
Step 3: Stuff the Tater Tots
- Take a small portion of the potato mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
- Place a small amount of crumbled bacon and a pinch of shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack) cheese in the center.
- Gently wrap the potato mixture around the filling, forming a small cylindrical shape, and make sure the filling is fully enclosed.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture until all tater tots are stuffed and shaped.
Step 4: Cooking the Tater Tots
Option 1: Deep Frying (For Extra Crispiness)
11. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
12. Carefully drop a few tater tots into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
13. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
14. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Alternative)
15. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
16. Arrange the stuffed tater tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray.
17. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Presentation
Once cooked, serve your Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Tater Tots hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Classic options include ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, barbecue sauce, or sour cream and chives. You can also garnish them with fresh parsley or green onions for an added touch of color and flavor.
For an extra indulgent experience, serve these crispy tater tots alongside a cheeseburger or a plate of loaded nachos. They make the perfect addition to any appetizer spread, and they’re sure to impress your guests.
Additional Tips for Perfect Tater Tots
- Use starchy potatoes like russets – they help create a crispier texture.
- Squeeze out excess water from the grated potatoes to prevent soggy tots.
- Make ahead – You can freeze these tater tots before frying or baking. Simply store them in an airtight container, and when ready to cook, fry or bake them straight from frozen.
- Experiment with different fillings – Swap bacon for diced ham, sausage, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist!
These Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Tater Tots bring together everything you love about comfort food: crispy, golden exteriors with a warm, melty, and savory center. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, they deliver an irresistible crunch and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Perfect for any gathering, party, or just a cozy night at home, these homemade stuffed tater tots are sure to become a new favorite in your snack rotation. Try them today, and get ready to enjoy crispy, cheesy, bacon-filled perfection!