Loaded Tater Tot Skewers

Crispy golden tater tots get a fun and flavorful twist when you thread them onto skewers, top with gooey cheddar, savory beef bacon bits, and vibrant green onions, then finish with a side of cool sour cream. These loaded tater tot skewers are perfect for game day, parties, or any evening when you crave comforting finger food that comes together with little effort and all the joy of classic pub fare.

The first time I made these was for a neighbor’s movie night and I ended up passing out the recipe at least five times. People still ask when I am bringing them again.

Ingredients

• Frozen tater tots: For perfectly crispy bite sized pieces every time look for well seasoned brands and bake straight from frozen
• Cheddar cheese: freshly grated melts best with full flavor choose sharp or medium cheddar
• Beef bacon bits: bring smoky savory crunch opt for good quality cooked and crumbled bacon for the best taste
• Green onions: fresh adds crispness and a mild onion zing use both green and white parts finely sliced
• Sour cream: classic loaded topper cools down the salty richness of the cheese and bacon choose full fat for best texture

Instructions

Preheat and bake tater tots:

Set your oven to 218C and line a sheet with baking paper. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer so air circulates around them. Bake for 28 minutes flipping them gently at the halfway mark for even crispiness

Cool and skewer:

Let the tots rest for a few minutes after baking so you do not burn your fingers. While still warm but firm thread 4 to 6 tater tots onto each skewer pressing closely but not squishing

Add toppings:

Arrange the skewers on a new parchment lined sheet. Generously scatter with grated cheddar a blanket of flavor that should reach every tot. Sprinkle on the beef bacon bits and about half of your chopped green onions

Melt it all together:

Slide the sheet back into the oven and heat for 5 to 7 minutes watching for the cheese to melt thoroughly and begin to bubble without burning. This brings everything together

Garnish and serve:

Pull out the melty skewers and top with the remaining green onions for a splash of color and fresh bite. Serve right away with a cool bowl of sour cream for dipping

My favorite ingredient here is the sharp cheddar cheese. Its bold flavor really pulls everything together and gives that stretchy satisfying bite when the skewers are piping hot. These bring back memories of childhood sleepovers when we would pile everything delicious onto a plate and dig in all together.

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat use an oven or toaster oven so the tots crisp back up. Microwaves will make them soft

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap beef bacon bits for turkey or classic pork bacon or skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Try pepper jack or gouda cheese to put your own twist on the flavor. Plain Greek yogurt stands in well for sour cream if needed

Serving suggestions

Skewers make it easy to dip cleanly and serve at buffets. For a more filling meal serve with a big green salad or roasted broccoli. These also work as a fun brunch side or after school treat

Once you make these loaded tater tot skewers, they are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy every bite while they are still hot and melty for the best experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a cheese blend can also be used.

→ Can I use regular bacon instead of beef bacon?

Yes, traditional pork bacon can be substituted for beef bacon to achieve a similar savory crunch.

→ How do I keep tater tots crispy?

Bake the tots in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even, crispy results.

→ Are these skewers suitable for appetizers?

Absolutely, their handheld size and loaded toppings make them perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Sour cream is classic, but ranch dressing or spicy ketchup add extra flavor options.