Description
These Loaded Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are crispy, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a bite-sized form. Made with golden tater tots, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, they’re the perfect party appetizer, game-day snack, or crowd-pleasing finger food.
Ingredients
Base
- 24 frozen tater tots
- Cooking spray
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin using cooking spray to ensure the tater tots don’t stick after baking.
- Place Tater Tots: Place 2 frozen tater tots into each muffin cup, arranging them to eventually form a cup shape.
- Initial Bake: Bake the tater tots for 10 minutes until they are slightly softened but not yet fully crispy.
- Shape the Tater Tot Cups: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and use the back of a small glass or spoon to gently press the tater tots into cup shapes in each muffin slot.
- Second Bake: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tater tot cups are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into each cup, then top with crumbled cooked bacon. Bake for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for about 2 minutes to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each tater tot cup with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Ranch dressing can be used instead of sour cream for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
