Spicy Cheesy Tater Tot Nachos

Name: Spicy Cheesy Tater Tot Nachos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 3 jalapeños, sliced; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 35 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic nachos, these Spicy Cheesy Tater Tot Nachos are your perfect match. Combining crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, and a spicy kick, this dish is bound to be a hit at any gathering, from game nights to casual family dinners.

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Ingredients for Spicy Cheesy Tater Tot Nachos

Tater tots are the foundation here, offering a crispy, hearty base. The sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully. Bacon adds a savory crunch; who can resist bacon? Fresh jalapeños bring the heat, and you can adjust this depending on your spice tolerance. Sour cream is drizzled on top for a creamy contrast to the spiciness. Cilantro and green onions add a fresh finish, and the seasoning mix of chili powder and garlic powder packs a punch of flavor that ties it all together.

Tips & Tricks

For extra crispiness, consider flipping the tater tots halfway through baking.
Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference. You can even remove the seeds for less heat.
Try grating your own cheese for a smoother melt compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these nachos with a side of homemade guacamole or a fresh tomato salsa for added flavor and color. They also pair well with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita. For a full meal, consider serving alongside a simple green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?: Absolutely! Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack would work great, too.
Is there a vegetarian version?: Yes, simply omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
How can I make it less spicy?: Use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds to tone down the heat.

Spicy Cheesy Tater Tot Nachos Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and keeps things from sticking. Take your frozen tater tots and spread them out evenly on the prepared sheet. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step is key for getting that crispy, flavorful exterior.

Pop the tater tots into the oven and let them bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden, crispy texture here. Once they’re ready, pull them out and evenly sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top. Follow this with the crumbled bacon and sliced jalapeños. Everything should be spread out nicely to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.

Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step is crucial for that delightful gooey cheese effect. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before drizzling with sour cream. Finally, garnish with cilantro and green onions to add a pop of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
A crowd-pleaser that combines the best of nachos and tater tots.
Customizable heat level with fresh jalapeños.
Rich layers of flavor with cheese, bacon, and spices.

Ingredients

1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon

3 jalapeños, sliced

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread the tater tots evenly on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Bake the tater tots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.

4. Remove the tots from the oven and sprinkle evenly with cheddar cheese.

5. Scatter the crumbled bacon and jalapeño slices over the cheese.

6. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.