Description

Tailgate Tots are the ultimate game day snack featuring crispy grilled tater tots layered with a rich homemade cheese sauce, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and fresh chives. Perfect for sharing at tailgates or casual gatherings, this recipe combines smoky grill flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Tater Tots

1 32-oz. package tater tots

Bacon and Toppings

8 slices bacon, chopped
1/4 cup freshly chopped chives
1 container sour cream

Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
1/4 tsp. chili powder

Instructions

Preheat and cook tater tots: Heat your grill to medium. Spray two disposable pie plates with cooking spray. Spread the tater tots in a single layer in each plate. Grill for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. Once done, set aside.
Cook bacon: While the tots are grilling, fry the chopped bacon in a sauté pan over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Make cheese sauce: In a deep-walled sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth slurry. Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, forming a thin sauce. Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar and chili powder, stirring until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat.
Assemble layers: Layer the grilled tater tots into small bowls or wide-mouthed mason jars. Top with a generous spoonful of the cheese sauce, then sprinkle with crispy bacon, add a dollop of sour cream, and finish with chopped fresh chives. Repeat layering until the containers are filled to the top.

Notes

Use disposable pie plates for easy cleanup after grilling the tater tots.
Stir the tater tots regularly while grilling to ensure even crispiness.
The cheese sauce can be adjusted for spiciness by adding more or less chili powder.
For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cheddar and milk.
This recipe can be easily doubled for larger groups.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Keywords: tailgate tots, grilled tater tots, cheese sauce, bacon, game day recipe, appetizers, party snacks