These Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are a fun twist on a classic snack! Crispy tater tots meet spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese, making them super tasty and hard to resist.
Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in! I love serving them with a side of ranch dip. You can never go wrong with a little extra flavor! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of this dish is the frozen tater tots. They provide a great crunch and serve as the base. If you can’t find tater tots, you can try making your own with grated potatoes! Just be sure to season them well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a milder cheese, you can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra kick. Cream cheese is also a great option to mix in for creaminess.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds smokiness and richness. You can easily swap it with turkey bacon or even omit it for a vegetarian version. Crispy fried onions can add a nice crunchy alternative.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos provide the heat. If you prefer less spice, use pickled jalapenos instead or substitute with bell peppers for a milder flavor!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and balances the spice. Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for a healthier option, while ranch dressing can also be tasty if you prefer a different twist.
How Do I Get My Tater Tots Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy tater tots is the cooking method. Here are steps to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Start by preheating your oven; a hot oven helps everything crisp up better.
- Arrange tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to soggy tots.
- Don’t forget to spray or drizzle with cooking oil – this helps them brown nicely.
- Baking them according to package instructions is great, but keeping an eye on them in the last few minutes can help ensure they don’t overcook.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy and delicious Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots every time!
Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 3-4 jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat will take you about 30-35 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and assembling, and then 20-25 minutes baking them to crispy perfection. Very worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is essential for making sure your tater tots come out crispy. On a baking sheet, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer. To help them get that nice golden color, give them a light spray with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of oil over them.
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the tray in the preheated oven and follow the package instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn crispy and golden. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re looking delicious and browned!
3. Add the Cheese:
Once the tater tots are crispy, take them out of the oven. Bring the cheese into play by sprinkling the shredded cheddar evenly over the hot tater tots. Pop them back into the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.
4. Assemble and Serve:
After the cheese has melted, carefully take the tray out of the oven and transfer the loaded tater tots to a serving plate. Now comes the fun part—dollop a generous amount of sour cream on top! Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon, freshly sliced jalapenos, and chopped green onions for that extra flavor and crunch.
5. Enjoy!
Serve these spicy, cheesy Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots immediately while they’re warm and crispy! They make a perfect appetizer, game day snack, or a fun side dish. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can make your own tater tots using fresh potatoes! Simply grate them, drain excess moisture, and then mix with a bit of flour, salt, and pepper. Form into tots and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F, but note that they may take longer to cook than frozen ones.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want more heat, try adding diced jalapenos into the cheese mix before baking, or use spicy cheese like Pepper Jack. You can also top with a drizzle of hot sauce right before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make These Tater Tots in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then arrange the tater tots in a single layer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Add the cheese during the last few minutes to let it melt perfectly!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an air fryer or oven to regain their crispiness rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
