These Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are a fun twist on a classic snack! They’re crispy on the outside and filled with yummy goodies like cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Perfect for parties or movie nights, these skewers are always a hit. I love how easy they are to make, and honestly, who can resist tater tots on a stick? Just grab a napkin! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the show! Frozen tater tots are convenient, but you can also use homemade ones if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure they are crispy for the best texture.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious smokiness. If you want a healthier option or a vegetarian alternative, turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas work well!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic here, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a cheese blend if you prefer a bit of spice.
Sour Cream: This acts as a tasty drizzle. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier touch, and it adds a nice tang!
Green Onions: These provide freshness and a mild onion flavor. Chives can be a lovely alternative if green onions aren’t available.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Tater Tots?
To get those perfect crispy tater tots, follow these techniques: First, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps them cook evenly. Spread them out in a single layer.
- Preheat your oven properly—this helps start the crisping process right away.
- Consider flipping the tater tots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- If you like an extra crunch, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning!
Loaded Tater Tot Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream (for drizzling)
- 3-4 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients, with around 20-25 minutes baking the tater tots. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to make clean-up easier.
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them according to the package instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re crispy and golden brown.
3. Cook the Bacon:
As the tater tots are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, take the bacon out and let it drain on some paper towels. When it’s cool enough, chop the bacon into small bits.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
After your tater tots are done baking, let them cool for a moment so they’re safe to handle. Carefully thread 7-8 tater tots onto each wooden skewer, making sure to space them evenly.
5. Add the Cheese and Bacon:
While the tater tots are still warm on the skewers, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over them. The heat from the tots will help the cheese melt a little. Next, top the skewers with your crispy bacon bits.
6. Drizzle with Sour Cream:
Using a spoon or a squeeze bottle, drizzle sour cream over the loaded skewers for that creamy finish. This adds a nice touch of flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off with sliced green onions for that fresh crunch and sprinkle a little salt and pepper if you like. Serve these tasty skewers immediately as an appetizer or snack!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and savory Loaded Tater Tot Skewers—they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Tater Tots?
Yes, you can substitute regular tater tots with sweet potato tater tots for a healthier twist! Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as they may cook a little differently based on the brand.
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the tater tots and cook the bacon ahead of time. Just assemble the skewers before serving. Keep the cooked ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which helps keep them crispy.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add toppings like jalapeños for heat, avocado for creaminess, or even a sprinkle of ranch dressing mix for extra flavor. The options are endless!
