Tater Tot Appetizer Cups

Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are the perfect bite-sized snack for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings. These crispy, cheesy, and savory cups are incredibly easy to make and offer a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you serve them with dipping sauces or enjoy them on their own, they’re sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Crispy, golden brown tater tots as the base
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and fillings
• Perfect for entertaining and serving a crowd
• Great for meal prep and freezing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen tater tots
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
• Cooked bacon, crumbled
• Sour cream
• Green onions, chopped
• Eggs (optional, for binding if adding extra ingredients)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Place 2-3 frozen tater tots in each muffin cup and bake for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Use a spoon or small cup to press the tater tots down, forming a cup shape.
4. Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. Remove from the oven and fill each tater tot cup with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
6. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
7. Let them cool slightly, then top with sour cream and chopped green onions.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 appetizer cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Loaded Version: Mix in cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier option.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda.
• Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and crumbled sausage for a morning twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked tater tot cups and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Pressing them down properly and baking them twice ensures a crispy texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and reheat before serving.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli work great.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

Yes, but you’ll need to shred and pre-cook them to achieve a similar texture.

How do I prevent them from sticking to the muffin tin?

Make sure to grease the tin well with non-stick spray or butter.

Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?

Absolutely! Try adding cooked sausage, ham, or even diced veggies.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda work well too.

Are these gluten-free?

Most tater tots are gluten-free, but check the packaging to be sure.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, checking for crispiness.

How can I make a larger batch?

Use multiple muffin tins and bake in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are a simple yet delicious snack that can be customized to fit any occasion. Whether you prefer them cheesy, spicy, or loaded with toppings, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Make a batch for your next party and watch them disappear in no time!

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