Loaded Potato Puffs

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Get ready to elevate your snack game with these Loaded Potato Puffs! They're crispy, cheesy, and topped with all the right fixings. Perfect for game day or any day you just want something comforting and delicious.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Puffs

The star of the show is the frozen tater tots – these little gems crisp up perfectly in the oven and provide the perfect base for all the toppings. Bacon brings that irresistible smoky, savory kick that pairs so beautifully with the tots. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey pockets of flavor, while sour cream adds a tangy creaminess. Chopped scallions bring a fresh, bright finish, and a sprinkle of black pepper and garlic powder ties everything together with just the right amount of seasoning.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even crispier tots, flip them halfway through baking.
  • Use a baking rack on your sheet pan to allow air circulation around the tots.
  • Pre-cooked bacon can save you a step and minimize cleanup.

Serving Suggestions

These Loaded Potato Puffs are fantastic for sharing as an appetizer. Pair them with a fresh green salad to balance the richness. They also make a great side dish for burgers or grilled meats. If you're hosting a party, consider serving them alongside a platter of assorted dips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can, but you'll need to pre-cook them until they are soft, then crisp them in the oven before adding toppings.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds a similar tangy flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
It's best to serve them fresh, but you can prepare the bacon and cheese ahead of time to speed up the process.

Loaded Potato Puffs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Spread the frozen tater tots out in a single layer on a baking sheet. The key here is to give them enough space so they toast up nice and crispy. Pop them in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy.

While the tots are baking, grab a skillet and cook up those bacon slices over medium heat. You want them crisp, but not burnt. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel to drain, and then crumble them up. This is where that smoky goodness is born.

When the tater tots are ready, pull them out and sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Slide the tray back into the oven for about 5 minutes. This is just enough time for the cheese to melt and meld with the tots.

Now, it’s time to layer on the love. Remove the sheet from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheesy tots. Add dollops of sour cream — try to spread them around so there’s a bit in every bite. Finish with a shower of chopped scallions and a generous sprinkle of black pepper and garlic powder. Serve those babies immediately and watch them disappear!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, using mostly pantry staples.
  • Perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings.
  • Combines the satisfying crunch of tater tots with the richness of loaded potatoes.

Ingredients

2 lbs frozen tater tots
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Bake tater tots for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
4. Once tater tots are cooked, sprinkle cheese evenly over them and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
5. Remove from oven and top with crumbled bacon, dollops of sour cream, and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
6. Season with black pepper and garlic powder. Serve immediately.

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