These Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are a fun mix of crispy potatoes, spicy jalapenos, and creamy cheese. Perfect for snacking or as a party treat!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving them with a side of ranch for dipping—so good, you’ll be back for seconds (or thirds)! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots work best for this recipe because they are quick and easy. If you prefer homemade, you can make your own from scratch using grated potatoes. They won’t be as crispy but will taste delicious.
Bacon: I love bacon for that extra crunch and flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or even crispy tempeh can work well too—just adjust the cooking time accordingly for the different types.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice, bold flavor. If you’re a cheese lover, mix it up by adding pepper jack for extra spice, or use a dairy-free cheese if you need a vegan alternative.
Sour Cream: It adds a creamy, cool contrast. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring heat. If you prefer something milder, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers or omit them entirely. Pickled jalapenos are also a great option if you’re looking for extra flavor without the heat.
How Do I Get My Tater Tots Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispiness is all about the right cooking technique. Here are some tips to get your tater tots just right.
- Preheat your oven properly—this helps them start cooking evenly from the get-go.
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Flipping them halfway through is crucial; this ensures all sides get that golden brown color.
- If you want an extra crunch, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Optional: Ranch dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 5-10 minutes getting everything ready and then about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Your taste buds will thank you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the tater tots package instructions, which is usually around 425°F (220°C). This ensures they get crispy and golden brown as they cook!
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for the recommended time—typically 20 to 25 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to make sure they brown evenly!
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the tater tots are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces.
4. Assemble the Tater Tots:
Once the tater tots are golden brown, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving plate or bowl.
5. Add Cheese and Other Toppings:
Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot tater tots so it melts beautifully. Then, add a creamy dollop of sour cream right on top.
6. Garnish with Bacon and Veggies:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Sprinkle crumbled bacon over everything, then add your thinly sliced jalapenos and chopped green onions for that vibrant color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These tater tots are best served hot. If you like, place some ranch dressing on the side for extra dipping goodness. Dive in and enjoy your crispy, creamy, spicy Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can make homemade tater tots from fresh potatoes! Grate the potatoes, rinse to remove excess starch, and then squeeze out the moisture. Season and shape them into tots before baking. They may require a bit more time to cook to achieve that crispy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! To amp up the spice level, consider adding more jalapenos or using spicy pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You could also incorporate red pepper flakes or even hot sauce for an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots?
These tater tots make a great appetizer or snack on their own, but they pair beautifully with dishes like chili, burgers, or grilled meats. You could also serve them at a party with a variety of dipping sauces—think ranch dressing, guacamole, or even a spicy aioli!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to get them crispy again, rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy.
