Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

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

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
1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

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 pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
2. Form and Stuff the Tater Tots:

Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your hand.
Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully wrap the hash brown mixture around it to form a small, oval-shaped tot. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed.
Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes.
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, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Serve:

Serve the tater tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup.
Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Tips:
Crispier Tots: For extra crispiness, double-fry the tater tots. Fry them for 2 minutes, let them rest for 5 minutes, and fry again until golden.
Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead: Assemble the tater tots and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack, gouda, or your favorite melty cheese.
These Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, you won’t be able to stop at just one!