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Loaded Tater Tots with Bacon, Queso, and Ranch Recipe

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4.9 from 46 reviews

Loaded Tater Tots are a deliciously crispy and savory appetizer featuring baked golden tater tots topped with warm queso, crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and fresh scallions. Perfect for game day or a fun snack.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 package of frozen tater tots (about 32 oz)
  • 8 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup queso
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If your tater tot package recommends a different temperature, adjust accordingly to accommodate both the tater tots and bacon.
  2. Bake Tater Tots: Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake according to the package instructions, usually around 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
  3. Prepare Bacon: Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on a baking rack set on a baking sheet to allow even cooking.
  4. Bake Bacon: Place both baking sheets in the oven. The bacon will need up to 20 minutes to become crispy, but start checking around 12 minutes to avoid overcooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon and let it cool slightly before chopping it into pieces.
  5. Slice Scallions and Chop Bacon: Slice the scallions thinly and chop the cooled bacon into small pieces.
  6. Warm Queso: Warm the queso in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop for 3 minutes until heated through and pourable.
  7. Assemble: Once the tater tots are baked, transfer them to a large serving dish.
  8. Add Queso: Drizzle the warm queso evenly over the crispy tater tots.
  9. Add Bacon: Sprinkle the chopped bacon on top of the queso-covered tots.
  10. Add Ranch Dressing: Drizzle ranch dressing over the bacon and tater tots for a creamy finish.
  11. Garnish and Season: Garnish with the sliced scallions. Finish with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Serve: Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, bake tater tots on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet.
  • Use turkey bacon for a leaner alternative.
  • Queso can be substituted with melted cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
  • Adjust ranch dressing quantity based on personal preference for creaminess.
  • If you prefer spicier flavors, add jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce on top.
  • Author: Millie
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://pleasingbites.com/loaded-tater-tots-with-bacon-queso-and-ranch-recipe/