These Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are a fun twist on a classic snack! Picture crispy tater tots piled high with cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream.
Perfect for game day or a casual get-together, these skewers are super easy to make and even easier to eat. I love serving them with a side of ranch for extra flavor—delicious! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of this dish! Frozen tater tots offer convenience and crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using sweet potato tater tots or homemade versions if you have the time!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar lends a gooey texture when melted. If you’re a cheese lover, consider mixing in pepper jack or Monterrey Jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese works well for a dairy-free option too.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. Turkey bacon is a great substitute for a lighter choice, or you can use diced mushrooms for a vegan alternative while still getting that umami flavor.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: This creamy mix enhances the flavors. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier twist. If you want a kick, try adding some hot sauce to the mayo mix!
How Do You Bake Tater Tots Perfectly?
Baking tater tots until they’re perfectly crispy is key for this recipe! Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven properly before adding the tots. A hot oven helps achieve that golden crispy exterior.
- Spread the tater tots out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Turn the tots halfway through baking. This ensures they’re browned on all sides and crispy.
- Consider using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around the tots for extra crispiness.
Loaded Tater Tot Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 (32 oz) bags frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or chives
- Wooden skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 30 minutes for baking. It’s a quick and easy treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tater Tots:
Start by preheating your oven according to the package instructions. Spread the frozen tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake them until they’re golden brown and crispy, which should take about 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through baking for even crispiness!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the tater tots are baking, grab a small bowl and mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise. If you find the mixture too thick, add milk a little at a time until you reach a drizzlable consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the tater tots are done baking, let them cool slightly. Now, it’s time to make the skewers! Carefully thread about 6-8 tater tots onto each wooden skewer.
4. Add Toppings:
While the skewers are still warm, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over them so that it melts just a little. Next, scatter the finely chopped bacon on top for extra flavor!
5. Final Touches:
Generously drizzle the prepared sour cream and mayo sauce over each skewer. To finish it off, garnish with the finely chopped green onions or chives for that burst of freshness.
6. Serve:
Your Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are now ready! Arrange them on a serving platter and serve immediately. For extra fun, add a side of ranch dressing or ketchup for dipping!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and savory Loaded Tater Tot Skewers – perfect finger food for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Cheese Besides Cheddar?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like Monterrey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Just make sure they’re shredded for easy melting on the tater tots.
Can I Prep These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the tater tots and assemble the skewers a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge and add the cheese and toppings before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and melty!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For reheating, place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, so they stay crispy!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Definitely! Use plant-based tater tots, replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and skip the bacon or use vegan bacon. For the sauce, you can substitute sour cream and mayo with vegan versions as well!
