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Loaded Tater Tot Cups

Crispy, golden tater tots molded into cups and filled with melted cheese, bacon, and sour cream - the ultimate party snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Tater Tot Cups
  • 900 g 900g (32 oz) frozen tater tots Use frozen, not fully thawed.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray For greasing the muffin tin.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning the tater tots.
For the Loaded Filling
  • 200 g 200g (about 7 oz) shredded cheddar cheese Use freshly shredded for best melting.
  • 150 g 150g (about 5 oz) cooked bacon, crumbled Use crispy bacon for better texture.
  • 120 g 120g (1/2 cup) sour cream For topping the cups.
  • 3 tablespoons 3 tablespoons finely chopped chives or spring onions For garnish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika For garnish.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste To season the filling.
  • Optional: pickled jalapeno slices for heat Add for spiciness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Thaw the frozen tater tots at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 220C (425F).
Cup Formation
  1. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin well with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Press 3-4 slightly thawed tater tots into each muffin cup to form a cup shape.
Baking
  1. Sprinkle garlic powder and a pinch of salt over the shaped tots.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  3. After baking, press down the center of each cup if puffed.
Cheese Melting
  1. Fill each cup with a generous pinch of shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes.
  2. Let cool for 2 minutes before removing from the tin.
Serving
  1. Carefully remove cups from the tin and add toppings: a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, chives, and smoked paprika.
  2. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Ensure the muffin tin is well-greased for easy removal. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. You can make them ahead of time and reheat before serving for convenience.