Loaded Tater Tots

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Description:
Loaded Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun snack. Crispy tater tots are topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and your favorite toppings, creating a mouthwatering bite with every tot. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients:

  • Frozen tater tots: 1 (32 oz) bag
  • Cheddar cheese (shredded): 1 ½ cups (150 g)
  • Bacon (cooked and crumbled): 6 slices
  • Sour cream: ½ cup (120 g)
  • Green onions (sliced): ¼ cup
  • Jalapeños (sliced, optional): 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper: to taste

Optional Ingredients (for extra flavor):

  • Ranch dressing: ¼ cup for drizzling
  • Avocado (diced): ½ cup
  • Black olives (sliced): ¼ cup
  • Salsa or pico de gallo: ½ cup
  • Chili or taco meat (for a heartier version): 1 cup

Instructions:

  1. Bake the tater tots:
    Preheat your oven according to the package instructions (usually around 425°F / 220°C). Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy.
  2. Cook the bacon:
    While the tater tots are baking, cook the bacon until crispy. Let it cool slightly, then crumble into small pieces.
  3. Add the toppings:
    Once the tater tots are fully cooked and crispy, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the tots to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Finish with toppings:
    Remove the cheesy tater tots from the oven and immediately top with crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and jalapeños (if using). Add any additional toppings like ranch, avocado, or salsa as desired.
  5. Serve hot:
    Serve the loaded tater tots immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

Tips for Success:

  • Get the tots extra crispy: For super crispy tater tots, bake them for a few extra minutes or use an air fryer.
  • Add toppings after baking: Add most of the toppings after the tater tots are baked to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.
  • Serve immediately: Loaded tater tots are best served right away to maintain their crispiness.

Recommendations:

  • Serve as party food: These are perfect for a party or game day, especially when served with various dipping sauces like ranch or chipotle mayo.
  • Make it a meal: For a more filling version, top the tots with chili or taco meat to turn it into a loaded tater tot casserole.
  • Air fryer option: To speed things up, cook the tater tots in an air fryer at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg

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