Tater Tot Bites are crispy little nuggets of joy that pack a tasty punch! They’re made from tater tots mixed with cheese and other goodies, all baked to perfection.
These bites are perfect for game days or snack time. I love serving them with a zesty dipping sauce—it just makes everything better! Plus, they’re super easy to make. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the star ingredient here. If you can’t find them, try using hash browns. Just chop them into small pieces and they’re good to go!
Cheddar Cheese: I love shredded cheddar for its rich flavor. If you’re after something different, consider using Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a salty crunch. You can swap it for turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian option. Crumbled sausage also works great if you want more flavor!
Green Onions: These add freshness. If you’re out, try chives or any mild onion for a similar taste. You could even use spinach for more color!
How Do You Get Tater Tot Bites to be Crispy?
A key focus in making these tater tot bites is achieving that perfect crispy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Partially thaw the tater tots: This helps them mix well without becoming mushy.
- Firmly press the mixture into the muffin cups: This ensures they hold their shape while baking.
- Bake at a high temperature: The 400°F setting helps those edges get golden and crispy.
- Let them cool briefly: This allows them to firm up a bit more for easy removal from the pan.
If you follow these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously crispy bites every time!
Tater Tot Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for the muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes to make these delightful bites. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, take a 24-cup mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little bit of oil. This will help the tater tot bites come out easily later on!
2. Thaw the Tater Tots:
Next, grab your frozen tater tots. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften a bit, or you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes. They should be just slightly soft—not fully cooked, though!
3. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, mash the partially thawed tater tots just a little. We want them to break apart, but not turn into complete mush. It’s okay to have some texture! Now, add your shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, sliced green onions, melted butter, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors.
4. Form the Bites:
Take about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the tater tot mixture and now it’s time to press it into the muffin cups. Make sure to pack them in firmly to create nice, round shapes.
5. Bake and Crisp:
Pop the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for those tops to get a delicious golden brown and crispy texture.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they are nicely golden, take them out and let cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This helps them set. Use a small offset spatula or a butter knife to gently lift each bite out of the pan.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your warm tater tot bites garnished with extra chopped green onions. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup, ranch, or sour cream, for that extra flavor kick!
These crispy, cheesy tater tot bites with bits of bacon and green onions are perfect as a party appetizer or just a tasty snack any time. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Just make sure it melts well for that gooey texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, try cooked turkey bacon, crumbled sausage, or completely omit it for a vegetarian version. You could also add chopped mushrooms for an extra flavor boost!
How Do I Store Leftover Tater Tot Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, or microwave them carefully.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before putting them in the oven for best results.
