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Tasty Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers Recipe - Crispy, Cheesy Crowd-Pleasers

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing or your favorite creamy sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Nonstick cooking spray or 1 tablespoon oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep the pan: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a large, rimmed baking sheet inside to heat up for 5 minutes. Lightly spray or oil the hot pan so the tots crisp instead of sticking.
  2. Season the tots: In a large bowl, toss frozen tater tots with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. This adds flavor and color.
  3. Bake until crisp: Spread tots in a single layer on the hot pan. Bake 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until deep golden and crunchy on the edges.
  4. Add the cheese: Pull the pan out and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tots. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  5. Top with bacon and extras: Scatter crumbled bacon, green onions, and jalapeños over the cheesy tots. You can drizzle with ranch or keep it for dipping.
  6. Finish and serve: Add small dollops of sour cream or serve it on the side. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot while the edges are still crunchy.