If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, these Baked Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots are just what you need. The combination of crispy tater tots, savory bacon, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar is sure to have everyone coming back for more. These bites are perfect for game day, parties, or even as a special treat for your family.
Ingredients:
- 24 frozen tater tots
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top if you have one. The wire rack will help the bacon cook evenly by allowing the heat to circulate around the tater tots.
- Prepare the Bacon and Tater Tots:
- Take the frozen tater tots out of the freezer. Cut each bacon slice in half, so you have 24 shorter pieces of bacon.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and chili powder. This mixture will add a perfect balance of sweet and spicy to the bacon, making the tater tots extra flavorful.
- Wrap the Tater Tots:
- Take one tater tot and wrap it with a half slice of bacon. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly at the end to secure it in place. If the bacon doesn’t stay wrapped around the tot, use a toothpick to hold it together.
- Once all the tater tots are wrapped, roll each one in the brown sugar and chili powder mixture until evenly coated. The sugar will caramelize in the oven, giving the bacon a lovely glaze.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
- Place the bacon-wrapped tater tots on the prepared baking sheet. If you’re using a wire rack, place them on the rack to allow the grease to drip down. Make sure they’re spaced apart so they cook evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the tater tots are heated through. You may want to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Be careful, as the melted sugar can be very hot.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped tater tots with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, ketchup, or even a spicy aioli. These tots are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it Up: If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar and chili powder mixture. This will give your tater tots an extra kick.
- Cheesy Addition: For a cheesy twist, try adding a small piece of cheddar or pepper jack cheese inside the tater tot before wrapping it in bacon. This will create a gooey, melty center when baked.
- Different Bacon: Experiment with different types of bacon, such as maple-flavored or peppered bacon, to change the flavor profile of this dish. Each type of bacon brings its own unique taste to the recipe.
- Sauce Pairing: Pair these tater tots with a variety of dipping sauces. Try a honey mustard sauce for a sweet contrast, or a sriracha mayo for a spicy kick.
- Party Ready: These bacon-wrapped tater tots can be made ahead of time. Wrap and coat the tots, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for party prep, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Baked Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tot recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. The combination of crispy, salty bacon with the tender tater tot inside is irresistible. The sweetness from the brown sugar caramelizes on the bacon as it bakes, adding a depth of flavor that complements the slight spiciness from the chili powder.
These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also very easy to make, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family movie night, or just looking for a fun snack to enjoy, these bacon-wrapped tater tots will hit the spot. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with a variety of dipping sauces, so you can mix and match to suit your taste. Enjoy!
