Imagine a chilly evening with the comforting aroma of crispy tater tots wafting through your kitchen. These Loaded Tater Tot Cups are the ultimate snack or appetizer to share with friends and family. With their delightful crunch and fluffy interiors, topped with creamy sour cream, crispy bacon, and fresh scallions, they create a flavor explosion in each bite. I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe one winter afternoon, and I’ve been hooked ever since!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These tater tot cups are perfect for parties or cozy nights in. They combine hearty flavors, a mix of textures, and the kind of comfort that warms you from the inside out. Plus, they’re super easy to make, which means more time enjoying and less time in the kitchen!
Ingredients Needed For Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- 1 pound frozen tater tots: The star of the show! Frozen tater tots create a crispy exterior while staying soft inside, giving you that perfect balance.
- 3/4 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese: This cheese is rich and creamy. Feel free to use a sharper cheese, like sharp cheddar, for a more intense flavor.
- 1/3 cup sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy element that brings all the flavors together. Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles: Smoky and salty, bacon crumbles are what takes these cups to the next level. Opt for real bacon for the best flavor.
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions (green onions): These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a nice pop of color. You can substitute with diced chives if you prefer.
How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Divide the frozen tater tots among 12 muffin cups, placing about 4-5 tots in each cup. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Once baked, press down in the center of each tot to form a little cup shape. Pop them back into the oven for another 15 minutes, allowing them to crisp up.
- After that, add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese to each cup and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let them rest for 3-4 minutes. Use a knife to gently run around the edges, making it easy to scoop out the cups onto a platter.
- Finally, top with dollops of sour cream, sprinkle with bacon crumbles, and finish with sliced scallions before serving.
How to Serve Loaded Tater Tot Cups
These tater tot cups shine as a party appetizer or a fun snack for movie night. Serve them warm and let guests customize with additional toppings, like jalapeños or diced tomatoes, for a personalized experience.
How to Store Loaded Tater Tot Cups
If you have any leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness—microwaving might leave them a bit soggy.
Tips to Make Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Don’t Overcrowd the Muffin Cups: Make sure not to pack the tater tots tightly. A little space allows for even cooking and crisping.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten up the presentation and add fresh notes.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese Alternatives: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Bacon Alternatives: Crumbled sausage or even sautéed mushrooms can provide a delicious twist for those who prefer vegetarian options.
- Add Heat: If you love spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra punch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tater tot cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tater cups ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Just assemble them the morning of your event, refrigerate, and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze Loaded Tater Tot Cups?
Yes, you can freeze the formed but unbaked tater tot cups! Cover them tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just increase the baking time by a few additional minutes.
What can I serve with Loaded Tater Tot Cups?
These cups pair wonderfully with a variety of dips like ranch or buffalo sauce. You could also serve them alongside a light salad to balance the hearty flavors.
How can I make these cups healthier?
You can use sweet potato tater tots for a healthier twist, and substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. Add lots of veggies as toppings for extra nutrients!
Are Loaded Tater Tot Cups gluten-free?
Frozen tater tots are usually gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure they meet your dietary needs. If you’re unsure, you can also make your own tater tots using fresh potatoes!
Loaded Tater Tot Cups
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen tater tots The star of the show! Creates a crispy exterior while staying soft inside.
- 3/4 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese Rich and creamy; can substitute with sharper cheese for intense flavor.
- 1/3 cup sour cream Adds a creamy, tangy element. Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles Smoky and salty; opt for real bacon for the best flavor.
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; can substitute with diced chives.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Divide the frozen tater tots among 12 muffin cups, placing about 4-5 tots in each cup. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Once baked, press down in the center of each tot to form a little cup shape. Pop them back into the oven for another 15 minutes, allowing them to crisp up.
- After that, add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese to each cup and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let them rest for 3-4 minutes. Use a knife to gently run around the edges, making it easy to scoop out the cups onto a platter.
- Finally, top with dollops of sour cream, sprinkle with bacon crumbles, and finish with sliced scallions before serving.
