How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Cups Recipe in Minutes
If you’re searching for a fun and delicious snack or an easy appetizer for your next gathering, then you’ve found the perfect recipe! Loaded tater tot cups are not only quick to make but packed with flavor that everyone will love. This loaded tater tot cups recipe combines crispy tater tots with savory toppings, creating a delightful treat that’s reminiscent of the beloved tater tot casserole, but in a fun, individual serving format.
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
Ingredients:
– 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– ½ cup sour cream
– ¼ cup green onions, sliced
– ½ cup cooked bacon bits (substitute with veggie bacon if preferred)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
Kitchen Tools:
– Muffin tin
– Cooking spray or oil
– Mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Oven mitts
Prep & Cook Time
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your tater tot cups cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin: Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the Tater Tots: Place a single layer of tater tots in each muffin cup. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press them down gently, forming small cups.
4. Bake the Tater Tots: Put the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
5. Add Chicken and Cheese: Once the tater tots are done, remove them from the oven. Carefully add shredded chicken and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese into each cup.
6. Return to Oven: Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Take the muffin tin out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top each cup with sour cream, green onions, and bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Enjoy: Serve these delicious loaded tater cup creations hot!
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
Loaded tater tot cups provide a great balance of carbohydrates from the tater tots, protein from the chicken, and healthy fats from the cheese and sour cream. They can be a satisfying and energy-boosting snack or meal option for both kids and adults.
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with cooked beans or extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms to keep it meat-free.
– Spice It Up: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
– Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcrowding the Cups: Make sure to form the cups properly so that they hold the fillings without falling apart.
– Undercooking Tater Tots: Ensure that the tater tots are crispy before adding toppings. This creates a sturdy base for your cups.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Conclusion with Call-to-Action
Now that you know how to make these amazing loaded tater tot cups, it’s time to get cooking! Perfect for parties or a cozy family night, this recipe is sure to impress. Share your creations on social media and tag us – we’d love to see how yours turned out!
FAQs
Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh tater tots can be used, but you may need to adjust cooking time according to the packaging instructions.
Can I prepare these cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Avocado, salsa, or shredded lettuce make great additions.
How long do leftovers last?
Stored properly, leftovers will stay fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator.
