If you love crispy, cheesy, and indulgent appetizers, then this Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots recipe is perfect for you! These bite-sized treats are golden and crispy on the outside, yet gooey and cheesy on the inside, making them the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, a fun snack, or a side dish, these homemade stuffed tater tots are so much better than frozen store-bought ones. With bacon, cheese, and potatoes, what’s not to love?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Crispy and Golden – Achieve perfect crispiness every time.
✔️ Cheesy and Gooey – Filled with melted cheese in every bite.
✔️ Loaded with Bacon – Because everything is better with bacon!
✔️ Homemade and Better Than Frozen – No preservatives, just pure deliciousness.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as a party appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Ingredients for Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots
Main Ingredients:
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3 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
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½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 egg, lightly beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
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Vegetable oil (for frying or air frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
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Peel and grate the potatoes using a fine grater.
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Place grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step ensures that your tater tots will be crispy and not soggy.
Step 2: Make the Tater Tot Mixture
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Grated potatoes
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Crispy bacon bits
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Flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper
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Lightly beaten egg
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Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but still hold its shape when formed into a ball.
Step 3: Shape the Tater Tots
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Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a small ball.
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Flatten it slightly, place a small cube of cheese in the center, and roll it into a tater tot shape.
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Repeat with the remaining mixture until all the tater tots are formed.
Step 4: Coat for Extra Crispiness
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Roll each tater tot in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
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Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.
Step 5: Cook the Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots
Frying Method (For Maximum Crispiness!):
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Heat vegetable oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the tater tots in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Air Fryer Method (Healthier Option!):
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Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Place tater tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
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Spray lightly with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
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Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Tater Tots
🍽️ Appetizer Platter – Serve with ranch, ketchup, or BBQ sauce.
🧀 Loaded Tots – Top with extra cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
🥓 Breakfast Side – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
How to Store & Reheat Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots
Storing Leftovers
🔹 Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🔹 Freeze: Place on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
✔️ Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
✔️ Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.
✔️ Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals (less crispy).
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots Instead of Making Them from Scratch?
Yes! If using store-bought tater tots, simply cut a small hole in each one, stuff with cheese and bacon, then air fry or bake until crispy.
What’s the Best Cheese for Stuffing?
🧀 Cheddar – Classic, sharp, and flavorful.
🧀 Mozzarella – Super gooey and melty.
🧀 Pepper Jack – Adds a little spicy kick.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the tater tots, freeze them, and fry or bake them when needed.
Variations & Customizations for Stuffed Tater Tots
🔥 Spicy Stuffed Tots – Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
🥓 Bacon Lover’s Version – Use double the bacon.
🥦 Healthier Option – Replace some potatoes with cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
🧄 Garlic Butter Tots – Toss in garlic butter before serving.
Why This Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots Recipe is a Must-Try!
✔️ Easy to Make – Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks.
✔️ Crispy & Cheesy – The best combination ever.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – From parties to snack time.
✔️ Totally Customizable – Adjust cheese, bacon, and seasonings to your liking.
No matter how you serve them, these homemade stuffed tater tots will steal the show at any gathering!
