Description
Tailgate Tots are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Crispy grilled tater tots are layered with a creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce, crispy bacon, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream for a deliciously indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare and serve in individual portions.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 32-oz. package tater tots
Bacon
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
Cheese Sauce
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 tsp. chili powder
Toppings
- 1 container sour cream (approximately 8 oz.)
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, preparing it for cooking the tater tots evenly.
- Grill the Tater Tots: Spray two disposable pie plates with cooking spray and arrange the tater tots in a single layer in each. Place on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure all tots cook evenly and become crispy. Once done, set them aside.
- Cook the Bacon: While the tots are grilling, fry the chopped bacon in a sauté pan over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a deep-walled sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly, to form a thin sauce. Add the shredded sharp cheddar and chili powder gradually while stirring until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is fully melted. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Tailgate Tots: In small bowls or wide-mouthed mason jars, layer the grilled tater tots first, followed by a generous portion of the cheese sauce. Next, sprinkle some crispy bacon, add a dollop of sour cream, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives. Continue layering until the containers are filled to the top.
Notes
- You can substitute the grill step by baking the tater tots in the oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes if a grill is unavailable.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Use sharp cheddar for the best melting quality and flavor, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
- These can be made ahead by preparing components separately and assembling just before serving.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 bowl)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
