Stuffed Tater Tots are a delightful twist on the classic snack, offering a savory and crispy exterior filled with melty cheese and optional bacon bits. These homemade tots are crafted from scratch using freshly grated russet potatoes and a blend of seasonings that enhance their natural flavors. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these tots are sure to please everyone, especially when paired with your favorite dipping sauces. The addition of cheese and bacon inside each tot turns these ordinary potato bites into an extraordinary treat, bursting with flavor in every bite.
Making these Stuffed Tater Tots involves a few simple steps that result in a delicious payoff. First, the potatoes are grated and thoroughly dried to ensure the tots achieve the desired crispiness when fried. The grated potatoes are then mixed with a blend of spices, flour, and an egg to bind everything together, creating a moldable mixture that’s easy to shape. The real fun begins when you stuff each tot with cheese, and optionally bacon, giving them a gooey, flavorful center that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior. After a quick chill in the refrigerator to firm them up, the tots are fried until golden and crispy. Garnished with fresh herbs, these tots are not only tasty but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: Each bite offers a crunchy texture on the outside with a soft, cheesy center.
- Customizable: Easily switch up the fillings with different types of cheese or add-ins like cooked bacon bits or herbs.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, these tots are a crowd-pleaser and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces.
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or parsley (optional)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Grate the potatoes and use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, flour, and beaten egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape and Stuff:
- Take a small portion of the potato mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a bit of cheese (and bacon, if using) in the center. Carefully enclose the filling by shaping the mixture into a small tot.
- Chill:
- Place the shaped tots on a tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm them up, which helps them maintain their shape during frying.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tots in batches to avoid overcrowding, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Sprinkle the hot tots with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch and serve with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Dry the Potatoes Well: Ensure the grated potatoes are as dry as possible to prevent soggy tots.
- Consistent Size: Keep the tots uniform in size for even cooking.
- Hot Oil: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to get the best results.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Keep any leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm them in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy and heated through.
These Stuffed Tater Tots are a fun and delicious way to upgrade your snack time or mealtime with a homemade touch that’s sure to impress. Whether serving them at a party or enjoying them at home, these tots are a fantastic treat that combines the comforting flavors of potatoes and cheese with a delightful crunch.
