Name: Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups: 12 Perfect Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 frozen tater tots; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; Non-stick cooking spray

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I am so excited to tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer. You know those days when you just need something crunchy and cheesy and totally satisfying? These Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups are exactly that. I make these for every single game day and they are gone before I can even grab one for myself. I use savory beef bacon because it gives that perfect salty kick that everyone can enjoy. They are so easy to put together and trust me your friends will be asking for the recipe immediately.

Why You Will Love These Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

You are going to love how the tater tots get all crispy on the outside while the inside stays soft and cheesy. Since we use beef bacon the flavor is super rich and savory without being too heavy. It is basically a tiny baked potato but way better because of the crunch. Plus it is a total hit with kids and adults alike so you really cannot go wrong here.

Ingredients for Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

32 ounces frozen tater tots that are slightly thawed
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese that you shredded yourself
1/2 cup beef bacon that is cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup sour cream for a little dollop on top
2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions sliced thin
Non-stick cooking spray so nothing sticks

Essential Equipment for Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

A standard 24-count mini muffin tin
A small spoon or a tamper to help shape those cups
A mixing bowl
A wire cooling rack

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

Step 1 Prep and Preheat

First thing you need to do is get your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab your mini muffin tin and spray it really well with non-stick spray. You do not want these little guys sticking to the pan because that would be a total disaster.

Step 2 Form the Potato Base

Put three of those slightly thawed tater tots into each muffin cup. Slide them into the oven for about 10 minutes just to get them soft. Pull the tin out and use your small spoon to press the tots down and up the sides. You want to make a little cup shape but do not push too hard or you will go right through the bottom.

Step 3 Add the Filling

Now the fun part comes. Fill each of those potato cups with plenty of shredded cheddar cheese and a good sprinkle of that crumbled beef bacon. Put the tin back in the oven for another 15 minutes. You are looking for golden brown edges and bubbly cheese.

Step 4 Garnish and Serve

Let them sit in the pan for 5 minutes so they firm up. If you try to take them out too soon they might fall apart. Carefully lift them out and add a tiny bit of sour cream and some chives on top of each one.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

One big tip is to make sure those tater tots are not rock-solid frozen when you start. If they are too cold they will just crumble when you try to shape them. If they do get stuck just use a thin knife to wiggle them out while they are still warm. Also a dark muffin tin works best because it helps the potatoes get extra crispy.

Storage and Reheating for Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

If you actually have leftovers you can keep them in a container in the fridge for up to three days. Whatever you do please do not use the microwave to warm them up or they will get all mushy. Put them back in the oven at 350 degrees for about 8 to 10 minutes so they get that crunch back.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Bacon Tater Tot Cups

Can I use different types of cheese

You totally can. Use pepper jack if you want some heat or mozzarella if you like that long cheese pull. I always recommend shredding your own cheese because it melts so much better than the bagged stuff.

Can I make these ahead of time

Yes you can. You can bake the potato shells first and keep them aside. Then just add the cheese and beef bacon right before you want to serve them and do the final bake then.

What can I use instead of beef bacon

If you do not have beef bacon on hand you can use some chopped up smoked chicken or even some seasoned beef crumbles. It will still taste amazing and savory.

Estimated Nutritional Information

Calories 210 kcal
Total Fat 14g
Saturated Fat 6g
Cholesterol 25mg
Sodium 480mg
Total Carbohydrates 16g
Protein 9g