Loaded Tater Tots
If you love comfort food that’s easy, cheesy, and downright delicious, this Loaded Tater Tots recipe is going to hit the spot. Crispy tater tots smothered in gooey queso, smoky bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing make for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for hosting a party, enjoying a game day snack, or finding a fun dinner idea, these loaded tots deliver on flavor and fun every single time.
Loaded Tater Tots are a must-try for anyone who loves easy, customizable recipes that deliver big on flavor. These tots can be dressed up for a party or kept simple for a casual snack. For a fun twist, you can even create a DIY tater tot bar with all your favorite toppings. No matter how you serve them, this recipe always leaves guests impressed and craving more.
Why you’ll love these Loaded Tater Tots
Loaded Tater Tots: Your Next Party Favorite
As someone who grew up in Ireland, I’ve got a soft spot for anything involving potatoes. Over there, we’re all about the humble spud, whether it’s mashed, roasted, or in a hearty stew. So, when I discovered loaded tater tots after moving to the States, I knew I’d found my ultimate comfort food. This dish feels like a nod to my roots but with an American twist—crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Plus, it’s hard not to love a recipe where potatoes take center stage!
Ingredients Needed for Loaded Tater Tots
- Tater Tots: The crispy base of this dish. Look for a brand that’s known for staying crunchy even after baking.
- Bacon: Adds smoky, salty goodness. Thick-cut bacon works great for a meatier bite, but any type will do. Cook it just right to get that perfect crispy texture.
- Queso: Creamy, cheesy perfection. You can use jarred queso or whip up your own if you’re feeling fancy. A homemade version with jalapeños can add a fun spicy kick.
- Ranch Dressing: A tangy contrast to the queso that ties all the flavors together. Use your favorite brand or make your own for extra freshness.
- Green Onions: Fresh and zesty, green onions add the perfect pop of color and flavor. Finely slicing them ensures an even distribution.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient. Adjust to your liking for the perfect balance.
How to make Loaded Tater Tots
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
Bake Tater Tots until crispy and golden.
Cook the bacon on a separate baking sheet until crispy.
Heat the queso until warm and pourable
Assemble your Loaded Tater Tots and serve immediately!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also works wonders.
- Loaded Veggie: Swap bacon for roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted corn for a colorful twist.
- Buffalo Style: Toss the tots in buffalo sauce before baking and use blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a tangy punch.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add seasoned ground beef, black beans, and a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of cilantro completes the look.
- Breakfast Tots: Top with scrambled eggs, sausage, and shredded cheese for a morning treat that feels indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
- Game Day Spread: Serve as part of a game day buffet alongside Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, Onion RIngs, and sliders for the ultimate lineup.
- Movie Night Snack: Pair with popcorn and your favorite flick for the ultimate cozy evening. Bonus points if you include a bowl of your favorite candy.
- Party Platter: Arrange on a large tray and let guests help themselves. Add small bowls of extra toppings for customization.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or ribs for a hearty meal.
- DIY Bar: Set up a tater tot bar with toppings like Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for everyone to customize their own. You could even double the topping and serve Beef Nachos too!
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Loaded Tater Tots?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the tots soggy.
- Can I freeze Loaded Tater Tots?
While the tater tots themselves freeze well, it’s best to store the toppings separately to avoid sogginess. Reheat the tots and add fresh toppings when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Use a Preheated Baking Sheet: This helps the tots get extra crispy on the outside and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the tots plenty of space so they bake evenly and achieve maximum crunch.
- Crispy Bacon Hack: Line your baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and evenly cooked bacon every time.
- Keep Queso Smooth: Stir occasionally while heating to avoid clumps and ensure a silky texture.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm to keep the tots crispy. Have your toppings ready to go before the tots come out of the oven.
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FAQ
Loaded Tater Tots
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
- Large serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 32 oz package frozen tater tots
- 8 slices bacon chopped
- 2 cup queso
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 green onions thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 425°F (or follow tater tot package instructions if different).
- Spread tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Place bacon on another baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, checking around 12 minutes to avoid overcooking. Once done, let cool slightly, then chop.
- Heat queso in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, or until warm and pourable. Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over low heat.
Assemble:
- Place baked tater tots on a large serving dish.
- Drizzle warm queso over tater tots.
- Sprinkle chopped bacon on top.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing.
- Garnish with sliced green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while warm.
