Loaded Tater Tot Skewers are a fun twist on a classic treat! Imagine crispy tater tots, perfectly stacked on skewers, and topped with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and your favorite sauces.
These tasty bites are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in! I love to dip them in ranch or ketchup—it’s like a mini potato party on a stick! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots make this recipe super easy. If you can’t find them, sweet potato fries can work too for a different flavor and a slight twist on the classic.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want a creamier option, try Monterey Jack or a cheese blend. For a vegan version, dairy-free cheese can work well too!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds delicious crunch and saltiness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, crispy cooked mushrooms or smoked tempeh are great substitutes.
Green Onions: They add a fresh, mild onion flavor. You can swap them for chives or omit them if you prefer. Fresh herbs like parsley can also give a pop of color and taste.
Sour Cream: I use sour cream for dipping, but Greek yogurt makes a wonderful, healthier alternative. You could even mix in some ranch seasoning for extra flavor!
How Do You Ensure the Tater Tots Stay Crispy on Skewers?
The key to crispy tater tots is proper baking! Start by preheating the oven as per the package instructions. Make sure to arrange the tater tots in a single layer, which helps them cook evenly.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway to get that golden brown finish.
- Once they cool slightly, thread 4-5 onto each skewer, leaving a bit of space between them. This helps heat circulate and keeps them crispy.
- Sprinkle cheese and toppings after skewering so they melt perfectly without making the tater tots soggy.
By following these simple steps, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy Loaded Tater Tot Skewers every time!
How to Make Loaded Tater Tot Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 40 minutes total: around 30 minutes for baking the tater tots, plus 10 minutes to assemble and finish the skewers. It’s a quick and tasty treat that’s perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), following the instructions on the tater tot package. This will ensure they bake perfectly crispy!
2. Bake the Tater Tots:
Spread the frozen tater tots out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and crispy—yum!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
After the tater tots are done, carefully take them out and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Grab your skewers, and while the tots are still warm, thread 4-5 tater tots onto each skewer. Don’t worry if there are a few gaps; this helps them cook evenly!
4. Add Toppings:
Place the tater tot skewers back on the baking sheet. Now sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of each skewer, then add the chopped bacon and a sprinkle of sliced green onions on top of that. More flavor, yay!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Return the loaded skewers to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them—nothing beats gooey melted cheese!
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the skewers are baking, get your dipping sauce ready! In a bowl, add the sour cream and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well and set it aside.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your skewers are out of the oven, sprinkle some extra green onions on top for garnish. Serve them hot with your creamy sour cream dip. Enjoy every delicious bite of your Loaded Tater Tot Skewers as a fun appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
You can use fresh tater tots if available, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh tater tots will typically cook faster, so keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark at 425°F.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute the bacon with cooked and crumbled tempeh, mushroom bacon, or even plant-based bacon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through to maintain crispiness.
Can I Make These Skewers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time! Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking, or you can bake them straight from the fridge but might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
