Crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, these Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food! Packed with cheesy goodness and smoky bacon, they’re perfect as a party appetizer, game day snack, or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Tater Tot Mixture:
4 cups (800g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (115g) cooked bacon, finely chopped
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Stuffing:
1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
For Frying:
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tater Tot Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix everything together until evenly combined, creating a cohesive mixture.
Step 2: Form and Stuff the Tater Tots
Take about 2 tablespoons of the hash brown mixture and flatten it into a small disc in the palm of your hand.
Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center.
Carefully wrap the hash brown mixture around the cheese cube, forming an oval-shaped tot. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed to avoid leaks while frying.
Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes until all tots are formed.
Step 3: Fry the Tater Tots
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the tater tots in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook each batch for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the tater tots from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve the Tater Tots
Serve the tater tots hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Great options include ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.
Enjoy while the mozzarella inside is still gooey and melty!
Tips for Success
Crispier Tots: For extra crispiness, consider double-frying the tater tots. Fry them for 2 minutes, let them rest for 5 minutes, and then fry again until golden.
Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tater tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the tater tots and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen when needed.
Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella cheese for pepper jack, gouda, or your favorite melty cheese to customize the flavor.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes about 6 servings, depending on the size of your tater tots.
Enjoy Your Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots!
These tots are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with smoky bacon flavor—guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving comfort food, you’ll find these irresistible!