Ultimate Loaded Tater Tots
Transform humble tater tots into a flavor explosion with this recipe for Ultimate Loaded Tater Tots! Crispy tots are topped with melted cheese, savory bacon, sour cream, and green onions for a comforting and customizable dish perfect for parties or a fun family meal.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven or Air Fryer
- Serving platter or baking dish
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil if baking
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- If baking, lightly toss the tater tots with vegetable oil for extra crispiness.
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Cook tater tots according to package directions or until golden brown and crispy. For oven baking, this is typically 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, this is typically 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- While the tots are cooking, cook bacon until crispy and crumble.
- Once the tots are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter or baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tots.
- Top with crumbled bacon.
- Bake or air fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispy tater tots, ensure they are arranged in a single layer when baking or air frying. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Customize your loaded tater tots by using different types of cheese (Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack), proteins (pulled pork, chili, shredded chicken), sauces (ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, hot sauce), and garnishes (diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, avocado). Leftover loaded tater tots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.