Loaded Tater Tot Cups combine crispy potato tots with savory toppings in single-serve portions that are perfect for any gathering. These handheld bites deliver all the flavors of loaded potato skins with half the effort!
Why You’ll Love Loaded Tater Tot Cups
These delicious tater tot cups are guaranteed to become your new favorite appetizer! They’re incredibly versatile – perfect for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or casual family movie nights. The crispy exterior combined with melty cheese and savory toppings creates the perfect bite every time. Plus, they’re customizable to please even the pickiest eaters, and the individual portions mean no messy serving or sharing issues. Best of all, they come together in about 30 minutes with minimal prep work!
Loaded Tater Tot Cups Ingredients
For the Cups:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots, thawed for 20 minutes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- Optional: jalapeños, black olives, diced tomatoes
Tools Used to Make Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Muffin tin (standard size)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
- Baking sheet (for cooking bacon)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously spray a muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Prepare the tater tots by placing them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Form the cups by pressing approximately 5-7 tater tots into each muffin cup, creating a nest-like shape with a hollow center. Use the back of a spoon to press them firmly against the bottom and sides.
- Pre-bake the cups for 10 minutes until they begin to crisp and hold their shape.
- Add the fillings by sprinkling about 1 tablespoon of cheese into each cup, followed by a portion of the crumbled bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool slightly for 2-3 minutes before carefully removing from the muffin tin with a spoon or knife.
- Top each cup with a small dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with green onions and diced red bell pepper, plus any additional toppings you desire.
Variations of Loaded Tater Tot Cups
- Breakfast Cups: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage instead of bacon.
- Mexican-Style: Use pepper jack cheese, add black beans, corn, and top with guacamole.
- Buffalo Chicken: Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
- Pizza Cups: Add mini pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Veggie Deluxe: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
Serving Loaded Tater Tot Cups
Serve these delicious cups immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack for parties, game days, or potlucks. Arrange them on a serving platter with small bowls of extra toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole so guests can customize to their liking. They pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or California Turkey Club Wraps for a more substantial meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Loaded Tater Tot Cups ahead of time?
You can prepare the tater tot cups and pre-bake them up to a day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator, then add toppings and finish baking just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze these tater tot cups?
Yes! Freeze fully baked and cooled cups (without sour cream and fresh toppings) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Try pepper jack for spice, swiss for a milder flavor, or a combination of your favorites.
Are these gluten-free?
Most tater tots are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaging to be certain.
Final Thoughts
These Loaded Tater Tot Cups are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors in one irresistible bite-sized package. Make a batch for your next gathering and watch them disappear! Don’t forget to share your creations with us online.
More Recipes to Try!
- Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- Homemade Cheese Bread Recipe
- Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
- Whipped Ricotta Hot Honey Dip
- Creamy Bruschetta Dip Recipe
- Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip
- Easy Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark
- Churro Bites Recipe
- Funnel Cake Bites Recipe
- BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
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