Baked Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots are the ultimate bite-sized comfort food, combining crispy tater tots with smoky bacon and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for game day, parties, or as a fun side dish, these tasty bites are easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 24 frozen tater tots
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Toothpicks
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Prepare the Tater Tots
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Wrap Tater Tots: Wrap each tater tot with half a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Place each wrapped tot seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Season and Bake
- Season with Brown Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the bacon-wrapped tater tots.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the tater tots are cooked through. Turn the tater tots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the tater tots to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the hot filling.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Bacon Size: Regular bacon works best for wrapping the tater tots, as it crisps up nicely without being too thick.
- Turn for Even Cooking: Turning the tater tots halfway through baking helps ensure that the bacon gets crispy on all sides.
- Secure with Toothpicks: Be sure to use toothpicks to keep the bacon in place while baking.
Variations
- Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots: Add a small piece of cheddar cheese between the bacon and the tater tot for a gooey cheese center.
- Spicy Tater Tots: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
- Garlic and Herb: Sprinkle with garlic powder and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herby flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ketchup, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or sriracha mayo for dipping.
- Appetizer Platter: Pair with other appetizers like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, or jalapeño poppers for a tasty party spread.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken for a fun side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped tater tots ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bacon-wrapped tater tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
Can I Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap and place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To bake from frozen, add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?
Regular-cut bacon is ideal because it cooks evenly and crisps up nicely without being too thick.
How Do I Prevent the Bacon from Becoming Soggy?
Make sure the oven is preheated to a high temperature (400°F) so the bacon can crisp up quickly, and turn the tater tots halfway through baking for even cooking.
Baked Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots are a simple, delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy bacon, a touch of sweetness, and the comfort of tater tots, these bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a party or just a fun family snack, they’re sure to disappear quickly. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy these savory treats!
Happy Cooking!
