Description
Loaded Tater Tot Cups
Crispy Tater Tot Cups Filled with Cheesy Beef and Bacon Goodness
Ingredients:
4 cups frozen tater tots
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. Place 4-5 tater tots in each muffin cup. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press the tots down and form a cup. Bake for 15 minutes.
3. While the tots bake, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the barbecue sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove the tater tot cups from the oven and sprinkle a little cheddar cheese into each cup. Top with the barbecue beef mixture and sprinkle more cheddar cheese on top.
5. Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 tater tot cups
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cups every time. First, ensure your muffin tin is well-greased to prevent sticking. Thawing the tater tots for 10-15 minutes makes them easier to press. When forming the cups, use firm, even pressure to create a solid base and walls. For the filling, cook the beef until no pink remains, then drain all excess fat thoroughly before adding the barbecue sauce. This prevents a greasy filling. When assembling, the initial layer of cheese in the baked tot shell acts as a moisture barrier, keeping the shell crispier.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded cups are incredibly versatile. For a game-day spread, serve them alongside bowls of sour cream, jalapeños, and extra barbecue sauce for dipping. They make a fantastic appetizer but can also be a main course when paired with a simple green salad or coleslaw. For a brunch twist, top with a dollop of cool sour cream and a drizzle of sriracha. To elevate presentation, serve directly on the muffin tin or arrange on a platter with fresh herb sprigs.
How-to Summary
In short: Press thawed tater tots into greased muffin cups and pre-bake. Fill the crispy shells with a layer of cheese, saucy cooked beef, and more cheese. Bake again until melted. Finish with bacon and green onions. The key steps are forming a solid cup, draining the beef well, and using cheese as a protective layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the cups up to the point before the second bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add a few extra minutes to the final baking time.
Can I use a different meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat work well. Adjust seasoning to match the protein.
My tot cups fell apart. What happened? This is usually due to insufficient pressing when forming the cup or not using enough tots. Ensure you press firmly to fuse them together.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for best crispiness; microwaving will make them soggy.
Can I make these gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your tater tot and barbecue sauce labels to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are present.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Greasing the Pan: This is the top cause of sticking. Use cooking spray or butter generously.
- Overfilling the Cups: Adding too much beef mixture can cause overflow and messy cleanup. Fill just to the top.
- Skipping the Pre-Bake: The initial bake is crucial for forming a stable, crispy vessel. Don’t rush it.
- Using Greasy Beef: Failing to drain the cooked beef will result in a soggy, greasy final product.
- Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold cheese or meat from the fridge can lower the temperature and require longer, uneven baking.
Conclusion
These Loaded Tater Tot Cups are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining crispy potato, savory beef, and melted cheese in a perfectly handheld format. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily master this recipe. Whether for a party, family snack, or game day, these delicious cups are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Enjoy the process of creating this simple yet impressive comfort food classic.