Loaded Tater Tot Cups are a fun and tasty twist on classic comfort food. These mini potato bites are packed with crispy tater tots, melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream, all baked together in a convenient, bite-sized form. They’re perfect for when you want something warm, cheesy, and full of flavor without the fuss.
I love making these because they’re so easy to customize. You can add green onions, jalapeños, or even swap bacon for cooked sausage if you like. Plus, they’re a huge hit at any party or family dinner. I always keep a batch warm in the oven, and they disappear faster than I can serve them!
My favorite way to enjoy Loaded Tater Tot Cups is alongside a fresh salad or with a simple dipping sauce like ranch or ketchup. They bring a little fun to the table and are perfect for sharing. Honestly, these cups have saved me more than once when I needed a quick, satisfying snack. Give them a try—you might find yourself making them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: These form the crispy base and give the dish its fun, crunchy texture. If you can’t find frozen tots, you can use small potato cubes seasoned and baked until crispy.
Cheddar Cheese: I like sharp cheddar for its flavor, but you can swap it for mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier taste.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds saltiness and crunch. For a vegetarian version, try smoked tempeh or crispy mushrooms.
Sour Cream: This cool topping balances the richness. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something tangier and lower in fat.
Green Onions: They add freshness and a slight bite. Chives or finely diced red onions work well too.
How Do I Get Crispy Tater Tot Cups Without Them Falling Apart?
Making sure the tater tot cups hold together is key. Here’s my go-to method:
- Press the frozen tater tots tightly and evenly into each muffin cup. Don’t leave gaps or the cups may break apart.
- Bake the cups in a hot oven (around 400°F) long enough to crisp the tots well, about 20-25 minutes.
- Let the cups cool briefly in the pan before removing them—this helps them firm up and hold their shape.
Using a non-stick or well-greased muffin tin also makes cleanup easier and keeps the cups intact. Following these steps will give you crispy, sturdy tater tot cups ready to be loaded with your favorite toppings!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-cup muffin tin – I recommend a standard size so the tater tot cups hold their shape well.
- Cooking spray or oil – helps prevent sticking and makes the edges crispy.
- Baking sheet – for easy handling and extra crispiness if needed.
- Small mixing spoon or spatula – for pressing tots into the tin evenly.
- Oven – essential for baking the cups to golden perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked sausage crumbles instead of bacon for a breakfast twist.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack to add a spicy or mellow flavor.
- Add sautéed peppers, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes inside before baking for extra freshness.
- Top with chopped cilantro or a drizzle of hot sauce for a different taste experience.
Loaded Tater Tot Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional drizzle)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 25-30 minutes to bake and assemble, totaling about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy snack or appetizer you can prepare any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking and help the tater tots crisp up nicely.
2. Shape the Tater Tot Cups:
Take the frozen tater tots and press them firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to create a cup shape. Make sure the tots are tightly packed so the cups hold together well while baking.
3. Bake the Tater Tot Shells:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the tater tot cups for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. This forms a sturdy shell for your delicious filling.
4. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese inside each tater tot cup, then top with crumbled cooked bacon.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Finish and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully allow the cups to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Add a generous spoonful of sour cream on top of each cup, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and drizzle with barbecue sauce if you like.
7. Serve:
Serve the loaded tater tot cups warm as a tasty appetizer, snack, or side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Tater Tots?
You can, but be sure to par-cook diced potatoes until they’re tender before shaping them into cups. It may take longer to crisp up, and the texture will be a bit different than using frozen tots.
How Do I Store Leftover Loaded Tater Tot Cups?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare and bake the tater tot shells in advance, then add cheese and bacon, and bake when ready to serve. Top with sour cream and green onions just before serving.
What Are Some Good Toppings or Add-Ins?
Try adding jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or cooked sausage for variety. You can also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or add a drizzle of ranch or hot sauce.