Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots
When it comes to irresistible party appetizers, nothing beats bacon-wrapped tater tots. These little bites are crispy, smoky, cheesy, and absolutely addictive. Each golden tot is wrapped in savory bacon and baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving them at game day, family gatherings, or holiday parties, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Ingredients
24 frozen tater tots
12 slices bacon, cut in half
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toothpicks (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Season the Tots
Place frozen tater tots in a bowl. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each tater tot with a half-slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve with ranch, sour cream, or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients you already have
Perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion
Customizable with spices and cheese
Easy to make ahead and bake when ready
Variations
Sweet and Spicy: Brush bacon with a mix of brown sugar and chili powder before baking
Cheesy Upgrade: Stuff each tot with a cube of cheddar before wrapping in bacon
Loaded Style: Garnish with sour cream, green onions, and extra cheese after baking
Low-Carb Twist: Swap tots for cauliflower bites wrapped in bacon
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze unbaked bacon-wrapped tots on a sheet pan, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen
Reheating: Reheat in oven or air fryer at 375°F until crispy again
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Calcium | 60mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Approximate values depending on brand of tater tots and bacon used.
Pro Tips
Use thick-cut bacon for extra chew, or thin-cut for faster crisping
Bake on a rack set over a sheet pan for even cooking and less grease
Add cheese at the end so it melts without burning
Serve hot for the best texture and flavor
FAQs
Can I air fry these instead of baking?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until crispy.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, though it may crisp differently. Brush lightly with oil for better browning.
Can I prepare them ahead?
Yes, wrap the tots and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What dips work best?
Ranch, sour cream, spicy aioli, or barbecue sauce are all perfect choices.
