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Loaded Bacon and Cheese Tater Tots

Crispy golden tater tots smothered in homemade cheddar cheese sauce, crispy bacon bits, and creamy ranch dressing. The ultimate comfort food appetizer.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tater Tots
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1 tsp seasoning salt optional
Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups whole milk warm
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
Toppings
  • 6 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 0.25 cup ranch dressing or sour cream

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
  3. While tots bake, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat. Whisk in shredded cheese and paprika until melted and glossy.
  7. Pile hot tater tots onto a serving dish or boat. Pour cheese sauce over the top.
  8. Top with crumbled bacon and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Serve immediately.

Notes

For spicy tots, add chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce or top with hot sauce.