Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

 Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots: The Ultimate Crispy, Cheesy Bite

Few things in life are as satisfying as crispy, golden-brown tater tots, but what if we take them to the next level? Imagine melty cheese and smoky bacon packed inside every bite-sized tot—irresistibly crunchy on the outside and decadently gooey on the inside. These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are perfect for parties, game days, or an indulgent snack.

Unlike store-bought versions, these homemade tater tots use fresh ingredients, ensuring superior flavor and texture. Whether you fry them to crispy perfection or bake them for a healthier alternative, these tots deliver on big, bold taste. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow, crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone reaching for more!

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

✅ Crispy & Golden – The perfect crunch in every bite

✅ Cheesy & Smoky – Sharp cheddar and crispy bacon make them irresistible

✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, quick prep, and maximum flavor

✅ Better Than Store-Bought – No artificial fillers, just pure, delicious ingredients

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient plays a key role in making these Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots absolutely delicious:

2 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated – Russet potatoes are starchy, giving the tots structure and crispiness.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle heat to complement the smoky bacon.

½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the savory depth of the tots.

½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a mild sweetness and enhances the overall taste.

½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced or shredded – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy center.

4 slices crispy bacon, finely chopped – Brings a salty, smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the cheese.

2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps bind the potatoes together, keeping the tots intact.

1 egg, beaten – Acts as a binder, ensuring the tots hold their shape.

½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Adds extra crispiness for the perfect crunchy exterior.

Vegetable oil, for frying – Neutral in flavor, ideal for getting that golden-brown crust.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Grate the Potatoes: Use a box grater to shred the potatoes into fine strands.

2. Soak in Cold Water: This removes excess starch, resulting in crispier tater tots. Let them sit for 5 minutes, then drain.

3. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Wrap the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Dry potatoes = crispier results!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

4. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cornstarch.

5. Add the chopped bacon and cheese, mixing gently to distribute evenly.

6. Stir in the beaten egg, ensuring everything binds together.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

7. Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and press it firmly into a small cylinder or tot shape. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more cornstarch.

8. Roll each tot in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

9. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

10. Fry the tater tots in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until deep golden brown and crispy.

11. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

12. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, sour cream, ketchup, or sriracha mayo.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Tater Tots

✔ Extra Crispy Tots: After shaping the tots, place them in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape.

✔ Alternative Cheese Options: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda for different flavor twists.

✔ Baked Option: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the tots on a parchment-lined sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

✔ Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze uncooked tater tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry or bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

✔ Healthier Option: Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

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Serving Suggestions

These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are delicious on their own, but here are some fun ways to serve them:

With Dipping Sauces: Classic ketchup, smoky chipotle mayo, or tangy honey mustard.

Breakfast Upgrade: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and avocado for a hearty morning meal.

Loaded Tots: Top with sour cream, green onions, and crispy jalapeños for a game-day snack.

Burgers & Sliders: Swap out French fries for these crispy, cheesy bites.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

These homemade Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots beat any frozen version with their fresh, high-quality ingredients and irresistible flavor. The combination of crispy golden potatoes, melty cheese, and smoky bacon creates the ultimate comfort food experience.

Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or just craving something indulgent, these tater tots deliver the perfect balance of crunch and gooey goodness. With easy preparation and pro tips for perfect results, you’ll be making these over and over again!

Try them today, and watch them disappear fa

ster than you can fry them!

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Would you like a spicy version or a custom dipping sauce recipe to complement these tots? Let me know!