Oh-So-Loaded Tater Tots

Ah, tater tots—the tiny golden nuggets of potato joy. But why stop at basic when you can load them up with cheese, bacon, and sour cream? Loaded tater tots are like the overachievers of the snack world, showing up to the party dressed in all their delicious toppings, ready to steal the spotlight and your appetite. Brace yourself—this isn’t just a side dish; it’s a main event.

Think of them as nachos but with more personality—and by personality, I mean potatoes. They’re the kind of snack that makes you wonder why anything else even exists. Once you pop one in your mouth, good luck stopping; they’re basically potato pop stars.

Step 1: 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.

Step 2: Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. They will bake according to the package instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Place a baking sheet. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the rack. This setup allows the bacon to cook evenly.

Step 4: Place both baking sheets in the oven. The bacon will likely need 15-20 minutes to become crisp but start checking around 12 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Remove the bacon once it’s crispy and let it cool slightly before chopping it into pieces.

Step 5: Slice the scallions and chop the bacon.

Step 6: While the tater tots and bacon are in the oven, warm up the queso in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop until it’s heated through and pourable, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Once the tater tots are baked, transfer them to a large serving dish. Evenly drizzle the warm queso over the crispy tater tots. Sprinkle the oven-baked, chopped bacon on top. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the bacon and tater tots. Garnish with the sliced scallions.

Step 8: Finish with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve the dish immediately while everything is still warm and inviting.

Loaded tater tots aren’t just food—they’re a vibe. Whether you’re hosting game night, curing a craving, or just treating yourself, these crispy, cheesy bites always deliver. So grab a fork (or don’t), dig in, and prepare for pure potato bliss. Your taste buds will thank you!