Loaded Tater Tots

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Loaded tater tots are crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with all the best toppings! This is comfort food at its best. Serve them with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.

Tater tots are great, but LOADED tater tots? Yes, please! These loaded tater tots are baked to golden perfection and topped with warm queso, crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and fresh scallions.

It’s perfect for a party, a lazy movie night, or a Tuesday afternoon, there’s never a bad time for loaded tots. Even my taco tot casserole proves that.

Why I love this recipe

Few things beat the combination of crispy, cheesy, and smoky, and this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy to throw together, totally satisfying, and great for sharing. I can switch up the toppings depending on what I’m craving. Sometimes I go classic, other times I add jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Ingredients

• frozen tater tots
• bacon
• queso 
• Ranch dressing
• scallions
• salt and pepper

Step by step

1. Bake the tater tots according to the package instructions in a single layer on a baking sheet until golden and crispy.
2. Place a wire rack on another baking sheet. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the rack for even cooking.
3. Bake the bacon in the same oven for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, checking around the 12 minute mark to prevent overcooking. Once crispy, remove and let cool slightly before chopping.
4. While the tots and bacon are baking, slice the scallions and warm the queso in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth and pourable, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the baked tater tots to a large serving dish. Drizzle with warm queso and ranch, then sprinkle with chopped bacon.
6. Garnish with the chopped scallions.
7. Finish with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Variation

Not a fan of queso? Go for shredded cheddar or pepper jack for a new spin. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños, or mix in sour cream for a smoother texture.

Serving suggestion

These loaded tater tots are a hit as a party snack, appetizer, or even a side for burgers and sandwiches. I like pairing them with lemon pepper wings, Reuben sliders, or a fresh salad for a little balance. They also make a great addition to a game day spread or movie night snack board.

Storage

These loaded tater tots are best served fresh so only add toppings to the tots you are eating immediately. Keep leftover tots fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to crisp them up again, then add toppings.

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!

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