Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are the perfect cheesy snack! These little bites are crispy on the outside and filled with creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos inside.
They’re like a party in your mouth! I love to serve them with ranch dip, and trust me, they disappear fast. Who could resist that delicious crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The base of this dish! Frozen tater tots are super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch using grated potatoes, but that’s a bit more work.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You could also use pepper jack for an extra kick, or mozzarella for a milder taste. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese alternatives!
Cream Cheese: This adds a delicious creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese. You could also use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give a spicy kick! If you want less heat, use fewer jalapenos or even pickled jalapenos. For a milder flavor, consider using bell peppers instead.
Bacon: This adds great flavor, but feel free to skip it for a vegetarian version. You can also use turkey bacon or crumbled tempeh for a healthier option.
How Do I Ensure My Tater Tots Are Crispy?
The secret to crispy tater tots lies in the baking process. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect crunch:
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Cook on a high heat (425°F) to help them crisp up nicely. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.
- If you want extra crunch, try broiling the tots for the last couple of minutes, but keep a close eye on them!
Following these tips will give you perfectly crispy tots every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tater Tots:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3-4 fresh jalapenos, sliced (adjust per heat preference)
For the Toppings:
- 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- Sour cream, for topping
- Ranch dressing or hot sauce for drizzling (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes to have these tasty Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots ready for munching!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to ensure your tater tots get nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Bake Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through cooking so they crisp up evenly.
3. Prepare Cheese Mixture:
While the tater tots are baking away, grab a bowl and mix your softened cream cheese with the shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend them until smooth and well combined.
4. Add Jalapenos:
Next, fold in about half of the sliced jalapenos into the cheese mixture. This will distribute the spicy goodness through the cheese! Save the remaining jalapenos for topping your dish later.
5. Top and Melt Cheese:
When the tater tots are golden and crispy, take them out of the oven. Carefully spoon the cheese and jalapeno mixture over the hot tater tots, spreading it evenly. Pop them back in the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly!
6. Add Toppings:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and the reserved jalapeno slices.
7. Serve:
Finish it off with a dollop of sour cream on top, and for extra flavor, you can drizzle with ranch dressing or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots warm as a satisfying snack or appetizer. Everyone will love their zesty flavor and cheesy goodness!
Now, go ahead and dig into this tasty treat! You deserve it! 🎉
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can make your own fresh tater tots! Simply grate or shred potatoes, form them into small bites, and then fry or bake them until crispy. Just remember that cooking times may vary compared to store-bought frozen tots.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, you can add more jalapenos or even include diced serrano or habanero peppers into the cheese mixture. For an extra kick, consider topping with spicy hot sauce before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make Them Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. You can enhance flavor with additional spices or even add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition!
