Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots Recipe

Frozen tater tots: These are the base of the recipe, providing a crispy and fluffy texture. Bacon: Adds a savory and smoky flavor, wrapping around the tater tots for a delicious bite. Brown sugar: Adds a sweet caramelized coating to the bacon, balancing the savory elements.

When wrapping the tater tots with bacon, make sure to stretch the bacon slightly as you wrap it around the tater tot. This ensures a snug fit and helps the bacon adhere better during baking. Additionally, for an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper onto the brown sugar before rolling the bacon-wrapped tater tots in it. This will add a subtle smoky or spicy kick to the final dish.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with cauliflower tots: Cauliflower tots provide a lower-carb alternative while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with sweet potato tots: Sweet potato tots offer a slightly sweeter taste and additional nutrients like vitamin A.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option with less fat and calories, while still providing a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto offers a similar salty and savory taste but is often thinner and less fatty.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a unique flavor that complements the savory elements.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• Allow the bacon-wrapped tater tots to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled tater tots to an airtight container. If you’re stacking them, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, proceed to freezing.

• To freeze, arrange the bacon-wrapped tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other to prevent clumping.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the tater tots are frozen solid. This step is known as flash freezing and helps maintain their shape and texture.

• Once frozen, transfer the tater tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the tater tots are heated through. No need to thaw before baking.

• For an added touch, sprinkle with a bit of freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover bacon-wrapped tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.

• Use an air fryer for a quick and crispy reheat. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tater tots for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped tater tots and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy.

• If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used, though it may not keep the bacon as crispy. Place the tater tots on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon-wrapped tater tots on the toaster oven tray and heat for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the bacon-wrapped tater tots until the bacon is crispy.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the tater tots on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the tater tots from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Toothpicks: Secures the bacon around each tater tot to keep it in place while baking.

• Measuring cup: Measures the brown sugar accurately for coating the tater tots.

• Tongs: Helps to handle the hot tater tots safely when removing them from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the tater tots to cool slightly after baking without getting soggy.

• Knife: Used to cut the bacon slices in half.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the bacon on.

Preheat while prepping: Start preheating your oven as you gather and prepare your ingredients to save time.

Use pre-cut bacon: Purchase pre-cut bacon to avoid the extra step of cutting slices in half.

Line baking sheet ahead: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper before you start wrapping the tater tots to streamline the process.

Assemble in batches: Wrap and roll the tater tots in brown sugar in small batches to maintain efficiency and speed.

Use a cooling rack: Place a cooling rack on the baking sheet to allow the bacon to crisp evenly and reduce the need for flipping.