These Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots are a fun twist on a classic snack! They are crispy on the outside and loaded with cheesy goodness and a little kick from jalapenos.
Who doesn’t love tater tots? Add some cream cheese and spices, and you’ve got a party in your mouth! I can’t help but grab a handful whenever they’re around—so addictive! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the base of this recipe. If you want to make them from scratch, you can use grated potatoes formed into tots, but frozen saves time!
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter option if you’re watching calories. For a dairy-free option, try cashew cheese or a plant-based cream cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For a spicy kick, pepper jack is a great choice.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give the pop to this dish! If you prefer less heat, use pickled jalapenos or skip them altogether. For more spice, add extra slices or some hot sauce.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor and crunch. You can substitute turkey bacon or try a plant-based bacon if you want a lighter option or need it to be vegetarian.
How Do I Broil Tater Tots Without Burning Them?
Broiling is a quick way to melt and brown the cheese, but it can go from perfect to burnt very fast. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure tater tots are hot and covered with toppings before putting them under the broiler.
- Keep the oven rack a few inches below the broiler to avoid burning.
- Watch closely and set a timer for 2-3 minutes. Check every minute until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
- If your broiler is extra strong, you might want to leave the oven door slightly ajar to avoid excessive heat.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve gooey, golden cheese every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3–4 fresh jalapeno peppers, finely chopped (plus a few slices for garnish)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes total. It includes 30 minutes for baking the tater tots and a few extra minutes to prepare and broil everything to cheesy perfection. Ready to spice up your snack time?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Tater Tots:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Take the frozen tater tots and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake them according to the package instructions until they are golden brown and crispy; this usually takes about 25-30 minutes. Get ready for that delicious aroma!
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
While the tater tots are baking, let’s whip up the creamy topping! In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This is going to be the star of the dish!
3. Assembling the Tater Tots:
Once the tater tots are out of the oven and perfectly crispy, transfer them to a serving plate or an ovenproof dish. Now take your cream cheese mixture and spoon it evenly over the hot tater tots, making sure each tot gets some tasty goodness.
4. Adding the Final Touches:
Next, it’s time to add more cheese! Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, then add the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. This not only makes it tasty but really adds a nice color too.
5. Broil to Perfection:
Now we want to get that cheese all melty and bubbly. Place the dish under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. As soon as the cheese is melted and beginning to bubble, it’s ready!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take it out of the oven and give it a nice garnish with fresh jalapeno slices for an extra touch. Serve your Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots immediately while they’re warm and melty. Trust me, everyone is going to love them!
Enjoy your spicy, cheesy delight!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh or homemade tater tots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as fresh tots might require less time in the oven. Bake until golden and crispy, following your recipe’s instructions for cooking fresh potatoes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy or Mild?
To adjust the spice level, use fewer jalapenos or opt for milder ones like banana peppers. For added heat, consider adding diced serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture.
Can I Prepare Jalapeno Popper Tater Tots in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Bake the tater tots fresh before serving and top them with the prepared mixture before broiling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, rather than microwaving to avoid sogginess.
