Crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, these Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food! Packed with cheesy goodness and smoky bacon, they’re perfect as a party appetizer, game day snack, or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
4 cups (800g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (115g) cooked bacon, finely chopped
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Tater Tot Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Form and Stuff the Tater Tots:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your hand.
Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully wrap the hash brown mixture around it to form a small, oval-shaped tot. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed.
Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes.
- Fry the Tater Tots:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the tater tots in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve:
Serve the tater tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.
Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Tips:
Crispier Tots: For extra crispiness, double-fry the tater tots. Fry them for 2 minutes, let them rest for 5 minutes, and fry again until golden.
Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead: Assemble the tater tots and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack, gouda, or your favorite melty cheese.
These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, you won’t be able to stop at just one!
