Here’s a recipe for making Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots – crispy, smoky, cheesy bites that are perfect for parties, game days, or just an indulgent snack.
🧀 Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots Recipe
🍽️ Yield:
About 24 pieces (serves 4–6 as an appetizer)
📝 Ingredients:
24 frozen tater tots (do not thaw)
12 slices of bacon, cut in half (standard-cut works best)
¼ cup brown sugar (optional, for a sweet-savory flavor)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for stuffing)
Toothpicks (wooden, not colored or plastic)
Optional dips: Ranch, BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, etc.
🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Place a wire rack on top if you want extra crispiness (optional but recommended).
2. Prepare the Bacon Wraps:
Take each slice of bacon and cut it in half crosswise (you’ll have 24 half-slices).
If using brown sugar and cayenne:
Mix them in a small bowl.
Dredge the bacon slices lightly in the mixture for a caramelized, spicy coating.
3. Optional – Add Cheese (Stuffed Version):
Make a small slit in the center of each frozen tater tot.
Insert a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese into each slit. Don’t overstuff.
4. Wrap the Tots:
Wrap each tater tot with a half-slice of bacon.
Secure the bacon with a toothpick, pushing through the center to hold everything together.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the bacon-wrapped tots seam-side down on the baking rack or directly on the foil-lined sheet.
Leave a little space between each for even cooking.
6. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until:
Bacon is crispy
Tots are golden brown
Cheese (if used) is bubbly
🔄 Optional: Flip halfway through baking to ensure even browning, especially if not using a wire rack.
7. Cool Slightly & Serve:
Let cool for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or spicy mayo.
🧂 Flavor Variations:
Spicy: Add a jalapeño slice under the bacon before wrapping.
Sweet: Use maple bacon and skip the cayenne.
BBQ style: Brush with BBQ sauce 5 minutes before removing from the oven.
🍷 Suggested Pairing:
Great with a cold beer, Bloody Mary, or a tangy mocktail if you prefer non-alcoholic.