Loaded Tater Tots Appetizer Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with minimal prep
• Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a satisfying snack
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• A great combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors
• Can be made in the oven or air fryer for convenience

Ingredients

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

• Frozen tater tots
• Ground beef
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Green onions, sliced
• Diced tomatoes
• Jalapeños, sliced (optional)
• Ranch dressing (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (or follow air fryer instructions if using one).
2. Arrange the frozen tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. While the tater tots are baking, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
4. Once the tater tots are crispy, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the cooked beef evenly over the top.
5. Add shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and return the baking sheet to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños if using.
7. Drizzle with ranch dressing if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap out cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Add diced avocado or guacamole for a creamy twist.
• Spice it up with hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
• Try barbecue sauce instead of ranch for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tots soggy.

FAQs

How do I keep tater tots crispy?

Bake them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. For extra crispiness, use an air fryer or bake on a wire rack.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and prep the toppings in advance, but for best results, bake the tater tots fresh before serving.

What’s the best way to cook tater tots for this recipe?

The oven or air fryer works best for crispy tater tots. Deep frying is another option for extra crunch.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

Yes, you can make homemade tater tots from grated potatoes, but it will take extra time and effort.

What other toppings can I add?

Black olives, diced bell peppers, crumbled tortilla chips, or a drizzle of hot honey are great additions.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, swap the beef for black beans, mushrooms, or a meat substitute.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Add the cheese during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it melts without burning.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use shredded chicken, ground turkey, or sausage as a variation.

What dipping sauces go well with loaded tater tots?

Ranch, sour cream, salsa, queso, or honey mustard all pair well.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use baked tater tots, lean beef, reduced-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Loaded tater tots are a fun and delicious appetizer that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a party or a casual snack, this recipe is sure to impress. With endless customization options, you can make them just the way you like. Try them out and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!