Name: Tailgate Tots Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 32-oz. package tater tots; 8 slices bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup freshly chopped chives; 1 container sour cream; 2 tbsp. butter; 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar, shredded; 1/4 tsp. chili powder

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Introduction

Tailgate Tots are a fun and flavorful snack perfect for game day or casual get-togethers. This recipe combines crispy tater tots with savory bacon and a creamy cheese sauce, then finishes with fresh chives and sour cream for a delicious finish.

This dish is shown in clear glass jars with several layers visible. The bottom layer is a golden crispy fried tater tot, followed by crumbled crispy bacon pieces mixed with melted cheddar cheese sauce. Above this is another layer of tater tots, topped with a dollop of smooth white sour cream and sprinkled with fresh green chopped chives. The texture shows a contrast of crunchy tater tots, creamy cheese, and soft sour cream, all stacked neatly inside the jar. The jars are placed on a white marbled surface with some tater tots and chives scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 32-oz. package tater tots
8 slices bacon, chopped
1/4 cup freshly chopped chives
1 container sour cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp chili powder

Instructions

Step 1: Heat your grill to medium heat.
Step 2: Spray two disposable pie plates with cooking spray. Spread tater tots evenly in a single layer in each plate. Grill for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly to cook evenly. Once done, set aside.
Step 3: While the tots cook, fry the chopped bacon in a sauté pan over medium heat until crisp. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 4: To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a deep-walled sauté pan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to form a smooth slurry. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, creating a thin sauce. Stir in sharp cheddar cheese and chili powder until fully melted and combined. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Tailgate Tots by layering tater tots in small bowls or wide-mouthed mason jars. Top with cheese sauce, bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with chopped chives. Repeat the layers until containers are filled.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy twist.
Use turkey bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce for dipping.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a little milk to loosen the cheese sauce if needed. For best texture, reheat uncovered to keep the tater tots crispy.

How to Serve

This image shows a glass jar filled with multiple layers of golden brown crispy tater tots mixed with bits of crispy bacon. Between the layers, there are drizzles of creamy white sauce and bright yellow cheese sauce, some running down the sides of the jar. The top layer features two whole tater tots, one topped with a dollop of white sour cream and sprinkled with small green chives. Around the jar on a white marbled surface are a few scattered green chives and one loose tater tot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can bake the tater tots in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a savory alternative.