These Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are all about fun and flavor! Picture crispy tater tots stacked with cheese, bacon, and maybe even some toppings like sour cream or chives. Yum!
What’s better than tater tots? Tater tots on a stick! I love serving these at parties since they’re easy to grab and impossible to resist. Just try not to eat them all yourself! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the stars of the dish and provide the perfect crispy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might consider using sweet potato or cauliflower tots, which are becoming more popular.
Bacon: Traditional bacon adds that smoky, savory flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter option, try turkey bacon or some crispy veggie bacon. You can also skip it altogether for a meat-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking to cater to dietary restrictions.
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and bright color. If you don’t have green onions, chives or parsley can work as a substitute for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Tater Tots Crispy?
The key to crispy tater tots is all about the baking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly. This helps the tots cook evenly.
- Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows for the hot air to circulate.
- Flip them halfway through baking to ensure they crisp up on all sides.
If you have an air fryer, that’s a great alternative for an extra crispy finish while cooking faster!
How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tater Tot Skewers:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking and broiling the skewers. Quick and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will ensure your tater tots get nice and crispy.
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake them according to package instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the tater tots are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain, then crumble it up when it’s cool.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
When the tater tots are done baking, carefully take them out of the oven. Grab your wooden skewers and thread 3-4 tater tots onto each skewer.
5. Add the Cheese:
Arrange the tater tot skewers on a serving platter or baking tray. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the skewers and place them in the oven under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Finish with Bacon and Green Onions:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skewers from the oven. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top for that extra deliciousness.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
These loaded tater tot skewers are best served warm. Dive in and enjoy this fun and tasty appetizer!
With crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon, these skewers are the perfect party treat! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for varied flavors. Just be sure they melt well!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the tater tot skewers ahead of time! Just prepare the skewers without the cheese, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake and melt the cheese as directed.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a bit of extra cheese if desired for freshness!
Can I Make These Without Bacon?
Definitely! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of the skewers. You might also consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for added flavor and texture!