Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are little flavor-packed goodies that will brighten up any party! These tasty bites have turkey, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, all on a soft bread base.
They’re a fun twist on the classic dish! I love to make these ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when guests arrive. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These bring a crispy base and fun texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use sweet potato tots or even mini potatoes that are parboiled and then roasted.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese gives a smooth and creamy texture to the filling. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using whipped vegan cream cheese or cashew cheese as a substitute.
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast is the classic choice here, but shredded rotisserie chicken or even diced ham works well too. You can also go vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works nicely, or you can make them vegetarian by skipping the bacon altogether and adding more veggies for crunch.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a fresh pop of color and flavor. If you can’t find cherries, chopped regular tomatoes or even diced bell peppers can work as a substitute.
How Can I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting the bacon crispy is key to enhancing the flavor in your Kentucky Hot Brown Bites. Here are some tips:
- Cook the bacon in the oven rather than on the stovetop, which helps it crisp evenly. Lay strips on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
- Let the bacon cool on a paper towel after cooking. This helps remove excess grease, making it crisper.
- Be sure to bake the bites long enough to warm the bacon through and make it crispy again without overcooking.
Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 20 pieces) frozen tater tots
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 10 slices bacon, cooked until crisp
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total, including 20-25 minutes for baking the tater tots and another 10-15 minutes for assembling and baking the bites. It’s an easy and delicious way to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Tater Tots:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them according to the package instructions until they are golden and crispy, about 20-25 minutes. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Creamy Turkey Filling:
While the tater tots are baking, take a medium bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped turkey, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.
3. Slice the Bacon:
Next, slice each cooked bacon strip in half. This will make it easier to wrap around the tater tots later.
4. Fill the Tater Tots:
Once the tater tots have cooled enough to handle, you can create a little space for the filling. Gently cut a small slit in the top of each tot or squeeze them gently to make a hollow spot. The idea is to fill them generously with the creamy turkey mixture you prepared.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Now it’s time to add the bacon! Wrap each stuffed tater tot with a half slice of bacon, securing it snugly around the filling.
6. Bake the Bites:
After wrapping all the tots, place them back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the bacon is warm and crispy.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once they are done baking, remove the bites from the oven. Top each one with a halved cherry tomato for a burst of color and flavor. Sprinkle some chopped green onions or fresh chives on top, along with a light dusting of smoked paprika for that extra touch.
8. Enjoy Your Creation:
Now it’s time to serve! Enjoy these warm, creamy, savory Kentucky Hot Brown Bites as a delicious appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Turkey Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh turkey, you can cook it first by roasting, boiling, or sautéing until fully cooked and then chop it into small pieces for the filling. Make sure to season it for the best flavor!
Can I Make These Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free tater tots instead of regular ones. Additionally, check that your mayonnaise and bacon are gluten-free to keep the entire dish compliant.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps retain their crispy texture.
Can I Use Different Vegetables as Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even avocado can add extra flavor and texture to your Kentucky Hot Brown Bites. Just make sure to chop them finely for even distribution!
