Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are a fun twist on a classic snack. Imagine crispy tater tots stacked on a skewer and topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions—yum!
These skewers are not only tasty but also super easy to make. I love serving them at parties; they always get a good laugh and disappear fast. Who can resist! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These are the backbone of the dish. If you can’t find frozen tater tots, you can easily swap them for hash browns, but they won’t have quite the same bite. I prefer the classic brand for crispiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is great for melting. You might also like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you want a bit of spice. Just shred a block for better melting than pre-shredded cheese!
Bacon: I love crispy bacon in this recipe for that crunchy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can work. Use whatever you prefer!
Green Onions: These are the perfect garnish that adds freshness. If you don’t have them, chopped chives or parsley can also be nice alternatives!
How Do I Ensure My Tater Tot Skewers Stay Crispy?
To keep your tater tot skewers crispy, here are a few steps you should follow:
- Preheat your oven fully to get that nice crisp texture on the tater tots.
- Spread the tater tots out on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding!
- Let the skewers cool just a little after baking before adding toppings. This helps keep them crispy while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Serve them right away after topping; they lose their crunch when sitting around too long!
With these tips and ingredient suggestions, your Loaded Tater Tot Skewers will be a hit every time! Enjoy crafting this fun dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 green onions, sliced thinly
- 8 wooden skewers
For Serving:
- Sour cream or ranch dressing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 25 minutes baking the tater tots and preparing the bacon, and then just a few minutes assembling and finishing the skewers. It’s quick, easy, and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the tater tots package instructions. This is usually set to about 425°F (220°C), but check your package to be sure. Getting the oven hot will help your tots become crispy and delicious!
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots out evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to follow any additional time shown on the package for the best results!
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the tater tots are baking, cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s ready, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on some paper towels before crumbling it into smaller pieces when it’s cool.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Once your tater tots are nice and crispy, take them out and let them cool just enough to handle them. Now, it’s time to make your skewers! Take about 4-5 tater tots and thread them onto each wooden skewer.
5. Add Cheese:
Next, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots on each skewer. This is where the magic happens, so don’t be shy with the cheese!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Now, carefully place the skewers back on the baking sheet and put them in the oven for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!
7. Top with Bacon and Green Onions:
After removing your skewers from the oven, evenly sprinkle the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top of each skewer. This adds a delicious crunch and freshness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Loaded Tater Tot Skewers immediately while they are still warm and cheesy. Don’t forget the optional dipping sauces like sour cream or ranch dressing — they really take the flavor up a notch!
This delightful dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are perfect for any gathering or just a fun movie night at home. Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tater tots are perfect for this recipe. Just follow the baking instructions on the package to ensure they come out crispy and golden.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tater tots and cook the bacon ahead of time. Assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, just pop them back in the oven to melt the cheese and warm them through!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed and the cheese is gooey again.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your toppings. Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap out the cheese for something different like mozzarella or pepper jack. The possibilities are endless!