Get ready for a fun snack with these Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots! They mix crispy tater tots with creamy cheese and a spicy kick from jalapenos. Perfect for sharing (or not!).
I love how these tots are both crunchy and cheesy! Serve them with some ranch or your favorite dip. Just don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots make this dish super easy. You could also use homemade tater tots if you’re feeling adventurous, but frozen ones save time!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings great flavor and melts nicely. If you’re looking for something different, Monterey Jack or pepper jack add a tasty twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. You can swap this for turkey bacon for a lighter option or leave it out for a vegetarian version. You might want to add more cheese to balance the flavors!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give a spicy kick! If you’re not into spicy food, consider using bell peppers or reducing the amount of jalapenos.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just make sure it’s plain!
How Do I Get My Tater Tots Super Crispy?
Crispy tater tots are essential for this dish to shine! Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Preheat your oven properly to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps them crisp up.
- Make sure the tater tots are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them will lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Flip the tater tots halfway through cooking for even browning and crunchiness.
- For an extra crispy finish, consider giving them a light spray of oil before baking.
These tips can help you achieve tater tots that are golden and delicious, making your Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots a hit!
Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 jalapenos, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). To make cleanup easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of cooking oil.
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they get golden and crisp all over.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the tots are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove it and let it drain on paper towels. Once it has cooled, crumble it into small pieces.
4. Add Cheese to Tater Tots:
When the tater tots are nice and crispy, transfer them to an oven-safe dish if you used a baking sheet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Pop the dish back into the oven for about 5 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt beautifully over the tots.
6. Top with Goodies:
Once the cheese is melted, take the dish out of the oven. Top it off with the crumbled bacon, sliced jalapenos, and chopped green onions for a fresh crunch!
7. Serve with Sour Cream:
Add a dollop of sour cream on top or serve it on the side for dipping. This creamy addition pairs perfectly with the heat of the jalapenos!
8. Season and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Serve these warm and enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots!
These crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy tater tots are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or as a comforting snack just for you!
Can I Use Fresh Jalapenos Instead of Pickled?
Yes, fresh jalapenos will give you a nice, spicy flavor! Just slice them thinly for even distribution over the tater tots. If you’re sensitive to heat, consider removing the seeds for a milder taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Tater Tots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to help regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Tater Tots in the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the tater tots for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, add cheese and toppings as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you prefer a healthier option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream. It offers a similar creaminess with added protein! Just choose a plain variety to keep the flavor balanced.
