These Tater Tot Mini Cheeseburger Bites are tiny treasures packed with flavor! They combine crispy tater tots with juicy beef and melty cheese for a fun, bite-sized treat.
Perfect for parties or snack time, these bites are always a hit. Who needs a full burger when you can enjoy the mini version? I love serving them with a side of dipping sauce—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the star of the dish, giving that crispy base. If you prefer homemade, try using frozen hash browns shaped into small nuggets. They work well in place of store-bought tots.
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 for juiciness, but you can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option. Plant-based ground meat also works for a vegetarian twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is perfect for melting. However, feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or a pepper jack for extra flavor. Just make sure it melts well!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a good substitution. Alternatively, omit it entirely for a vegetarian version!
Sour Cream: I love using sour cream on top, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. You could also mix in some ranch dressing for more flavor!
How Do You Form Perfect Mini Burger Patties?
Shaping the perfect mini burger patties is key for even cooking and flavor. Here’s a simple method:
- Use cold ground beef; it’s easier to handle. Take about a golf-ball-sized amount and gently form it into a patty, being careful not to overwork it.
- Make the patties slightly wider than your tots, as they’ll shrink while cooking.
- Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the middle to help keep them flat as they cook.
Tater Tot Mini Cheeseburger Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mini Cheeseburger Bites:
- 40 frozen tater tots (approximately 20 pairs)
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 slices cheddar cheese, cut in halves
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and cut in halves
- 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Toothpicks for assembly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 20-25 minutes baking the tater tots and cooking the mini burger patties, with a little extra time for assembly. Perfect for whipping up a fun snack in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Tater Tots:
First, preheat your oven according to the tater tot package instructions, usually around 425°F (220°C). Take a baking sheet and arrange the tater tots in pairs (two tots side by side) to create mini “buns.” Bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Once done, remove the baking sheet and let them cool slightly.
2. Shape the Mini Burger Patties:
While the tater tots are baking, take your ground beef and form it into small patties, about 1.5 inches wide. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. This is where the magic happens!
3. Cook the Burger Patties:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the mini patties for around 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through. During the last minute of cooking, place half a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet briefly to let the cheese melt.
4. Crisp the Bacon:
Next, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, cut each slice in half, making them easier to layer on your bites.
5. Assemble the Mini Cheeseburger Bites:
Now it’s time for assembling! Start with one baked tater tot (this will be the “bun bottom”) on a serving tray. Layer it with a slice of cheddar cheese, then add your mini cheeseburger patty on top. Next, place a half slice of bacon over the patty. If you like some heat, add a slice or two of pickled jalapeños. Finally, top with the second tater tot (the “bun top”). Secure everything together with a toothpick.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish each mini cheeseburger bite with a small dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle on some chopped red onion and sliced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color.
7. Ready to Enjoy!
Serve these delicious bites warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Enjoy these irresistible, crispy, cheesy mini burger bites perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tater tots are perfect for this recipe as they provide that crispy texture. Just follow the package instructions for baking them until golden brown.
What Other Meats Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned for the best flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mini cheeseburger bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! Cook the tater tots and burger patties in advance, then assemble them just before serving to keep everything warm and crispy.
