Bacon Wrapped Tater Tot Bombs are the ultimate snack! Imagine crispy tater tots wrapped in smoky bacon and baked to perfection. They are tasty and packed with flavor!
I love to dip them in ranch or BBQ sauce for extra flavor. They’re so fun to make, and trust me, everyone will want to grab a few at your next gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the star of this dish. You might try making your own by mixing grated potatoes with seasonings and shaping them into tater tot forms if you’re feeling adventurous!
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is preferred for its flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon can work too, but be prepared for a different experience since it doesn’t crisp up quite the same way.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds richness. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick!
Green Onions: These add a fresh, oniony crunch. You can swap in diced chives or omit them completely if you prefer or if you don’t have them handy.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These spices boost the flavor. Fresh minced garlic and onion can be used, just reduce the amount as they are stronger. A little goes a long way!
How Can I Ensure the Bacon is Crispy and the Tater Tots are Golden Brown?
Achieving crispy bacon and golden tater tots is key to this recipe. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Preheating is crucial! Ensure your oven or air fryer is fully preheated for even cooking.
- Spread the bacon-wrapped tater tots in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as it can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- For the best results, use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.
- Check on your tater tots halfway through cooking. You can turn them over to ensure even browning.
- Don’t skip letting them cool for a few minutes after cooking! This helps them set and makes them easier to eat.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Tater Tot Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tater Tots:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 lb bacon (thick cut preferred)
For the Optional Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or oil for the air fryer or baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking in the oven (or 15-20 minutes in the air fryer). Total time is around 40-50 minutes, including cooking time. Get ready for a fun and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Device:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking. If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure your tater tots cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare the Filling (Optional):
If you want to add some extra flavor, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This filling is optional but adds a delicious twist to your tater tot bombs!
3. Flatten the Tater Tots:
Take each frozen tater tot and gently press it down to flatten it. This will help when wrapping it with bacon. If you’re using the optional cheese filling, place about a teaspoon of it in the center of each flattened tater tot.
4. Wrap It Up:
Now, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each tater tot, making sure to cover it completely. If you find it hard to hold, you can use a toothpick to secure it. This helps keep everything in place while cooking.
5. Arrange for Baking or Air Frying:
Put your bacon-wrapped tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you’re baking, or arrange them in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil to help them crisp up.
6. Bake or Air Fry Them:
In the oven, bake the tater tots for about 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the tater tots are golden brown. If you’re using the air fryer, cook them for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done cooking, carefully remove the tater tot bombs from the oven or air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They will be super hot! Serve them warm and if you like, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a quick handful of cream cheese for a creamier filling. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, which can affect the texture of the bombs.
How Do I Make These Tater Tot Bombs Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in jalapeños or adding some hot sauce to the filling before wrapping. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped tater tot bombs a few hours ahead of time. Just place them in the refrigerator and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
