For many of us, tater tots hold a special place in our hearts, kinda like that comforting bowl of mac and cheese. They’ve got that crispy, golden exterior with a soft, fluffy inside, which makes them the perfect base for our recipe today. Add some cheese, bacon, and green onions, and you’ve got a mouth-watering combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds, maybe even thirds!
Honestly, these appetizer cups are such crowd-pleasers. They’re ideal for parties, and you can even tweak them a little to suit your taste. Sometimes, I add a bit of spice or swap out the bacon for bits of ham if I’ve got some leftover. They’re versatile, and that’s what makes them such a go-to in my recipe book. And hey, who doesn’t love a recipe that gets the stamp of approval from adults and kids alike?
So, why don’t you give these Tater Tot Appetizer Cups a try the next time you’re in need of a quick bite that’s guaranteed to impress? They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them, and I’m sure they’ll become a hit in your family just like they are in mine!
How to Make Tater Tot Appetizer Cups
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Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices crumbled bacon
- 48-60 frozen tater tots (16-oz bag)
- 2 sliced green onions (only the green part)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions:
- Start by preheating the oven to 450ºF. Coat the muffin pan cups generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- For mini muffin pans, place 2-3 tater tots into each cup. If using regular muffin pans, add 4-5 tots per cup.
- Set the muffin pan on the oven’s bottom rack and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove the pan afterward.
- Take a small glass (like a shot glass) and coat it with cooking spray. Press it into the center of each muffin cup to form potato cups, then place the pan back into the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Add a tablespoon of cheese on top of each potato cup and return to the oven for another 4-5 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Allow them to cool for five minutes once done.
- Finish by topping each cup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, and some sliced green onions. Serve warm and savor the deliciousness!
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re out of bacon or looking for a different flavor, try using ham or even smoked turkey for a change. For a vegetarian option, consider sautéing mushrooms or bell peppers instead. If you need a lactose-free version, swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions:
These appetizer cups pair wonderfully with a crunchy green salad or a refreshing veggie platter. You could also serve them alongside some fruity iced tea or a sparkling water with a lemon wedge to complement the flavors. A touch of hot sauce adds a nice kick for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
Seasonal Variations:
In the summer, substitute the cheddar cheese with fresh mozzarella and add some chopped tomatoes for a lighter taste. During the fall or winter, incorporate roasted squash or sweet potatoes for a warm, comforting feel. In spring, a sprinkle of fresh dill can add a burst of freshness.
Cooking Tips:
For extra crispiness, ensure the tater tots are not overly packed in the muffin cups, allowing them plenty of room to crisp all around. You can also use leftover cooked bacon for this recipe. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked bacon is a great solution, and you can adjust the cheese to your preference.
Storing Suggestion:
Store any leftover tater tot cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the tots soggy.
FAQ:
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can swap out cheddar cheese for other types like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Each option will give the dish a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
Can I make these appetizer cups in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tater tot cups a day in advance. Just follow the steps to bake and form the tots into cups. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven, add the cheese and toppings, and serve immediately.
Are there any alternative toppings I can use?
Absolutely! Consider using chopped bell peppers, sautéed onions, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. You could also top them with different sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo depending on your taste.
Can these be made vegetarian?
Indeed! Simply skip the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits, and feel free to incorporate additional veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or avocado to create a vegetarian delight that everyone can enjoy.
How do I ensure the tater tots turn crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the tater tots in the muffin cups. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated at 450ºF, and bake the cups long enough to ensure a crispy, golden exterior before adding any toppings.
What is the best way to handle leftovers?
Leftover tater tot cups should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results when reheating, place them in a preheated oven to maintain their crispy texture, instead of microwaving which can make them soggy.
Tater Tot Appetizer Cups
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices crumbled bacon
- 48-60 pieces frozen tater tots (16-oz bag)
- 2 sliced green onions (only the green part)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 450ºF and generously apply cooking spray to the muffin pan cups.
- If using a mini muffin pan, place 2-3 tater tots in each cup; for a regular muffin pan, fit 4-5 tater tots per cup.
- Bake the muffin pan on the bottom rack for approximately 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven.
- Using a shot glass or small juice glass, spray with cooking spray and twist it into the center of each muffin cup to form potato cups. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Top each potato cup with a tablespoon of cheese and bake for another 4-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Allow cooling on a platter for 5 minutes.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, and green onions on each cup before serving warm.
