Go Back

Loaded Tater Tots Appetizers

Indulge in crispy Loaded Tater Tots topped with cheesy goodness, crumbled bacon, and fresh toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tater Tots
  • 1 32-ounce bag frozen tater tots Look for crispy, air-fryer friendly tots.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Or a Mexican blend for a spice lift.
  • 6 slices bacon Cooked until crisp and crumbled (swap turkey bacon for a lighter touch).
  • 1 cup sour cream Or Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthy option.
  • 3 green onions Thinly sliced, white and green parts separated.
  • 1 jalapeño Seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat).
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños Chopped (optional, for tang).
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Or regular paprika.
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper To taste.
  • Fresh parsley or chives For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using an air fryer, set to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange frozen tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer for the crispiest result.
  3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the tots are deep golden and crunchy.
  4. While tots are baking, crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until deeply browned.
  5. Drain bacon on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  6. In a small bowl, mix sour cream with the white parts of the green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assembly and Baking
  1. When tots are finished, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with half the shredded cheddar.
  2. Scatter crumbled bacon and jalapeño pieces on top, then add the remaining cheddar.
  3. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes for the cheese to melt fully.
  4. Dollop the sour cream mixture over the tots or serve it on the side.
  5. Garnish with green parts of the onions, chopped parsley or chives, and an extra grind of black pepper.
  6. Serve piping hot.

Notes

To make this vegetarian, replace bacon with smoked tempeh crumbles or roasted mushrooms. For a gluten-free version, check your tater tot package label. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes.