Get ready for a fun twist on classic tater tots! These Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are crispy on the outside and packed with cheesy goodness and a spicy kick on the inside.
It’s hard to eat just one! Perfect for movie nights or parties, I love dipping mine in ranch dressing for an extra treat. Yum! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Tater Tots: The base of this recipe, tater tots are crispy and convenient. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider sweet potato tots. They can add a nice sweetness that pairs well with the spicy flavors.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, you can use non-dairy cream cheese or even mashed avocado for a fun twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a fantastic flavor. However, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra kick. I love using Pepper Jack for an added spiciness!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring heat. If you prefer less spice, try using bell peppers or mild banana peppers instead. For more heat, keep some seeds in when chopping.
Bacon: Crunchy bacon adds great flavor! You can substitute with turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Get My Tater Tots Extra Crispy?
Crispy tater tots make all the difference! Follow these steps to ensure a wonderful crunch:
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet. This promotes even cooking.
- Use a bit of oil or cooking spray on top to help them crisp up. I like olive oil for its light flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If you’re making a large batch, bake in two separate trays.
- Turn the tots halfway through cooking for that extra crunchy texture on all sides.
By following these tips, your tater tots will be perfectly crispy and make a great base for that cheesy, spicy topping!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapenos, seeds removed and finely chopped (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Sour cream or ranch dressing, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying these spicy, cheesy tater tots in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or a party treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the tater tots package instructions, which is usually around 425°F (220°C). This way, your tots will turn out perfectly crispy!
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet to make sure they cook evenly. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through for added crunch!
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
While your tater tots are baking, grab a medium bowl and mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos (set aside a few slices for later), chopped bacon, and chopped green onions. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Once your tater tots are done baking, carefully transfer them to a serving platter or a large bowl. While they are still hot, spoon the cheesy jalapeno mixture generously over the top so that it starts to melt a little.
5. Add the Toppings:
To finish, add a dollop of sour cream or your favorite ranch dressing on top of the cheesy mixture. Then, garnish with the reserved jalapeno slices, extra chopped bacon, and some green onion for a pop of color!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away while everything is warm and gooey. These Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Don’t forget to share (if you want to)! Enjoy this tasty treat packed with flavor!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh tater tots, just adjust the cooking time according to the instructions you have. Generally, they might require a shorter cooking time than frozen ones—about 20 minutes, but keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and crispy!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese, consider using Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter option. If you want a dairy-free alternative, try cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese, which can work well in this recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get them crispy again, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry, but note that they may lose some crunch.
Can I Add More Ingredients to the Topping?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the topping based on your preferences. Chopped bell peppers, corn, or even shredded pepper jack cheese can add extra flavor. Just remember to keep the balance so the tots hold their shape!
