Loaded Tots Recipe

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease or spray with nonstick spray. Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer on the sheet.

Toss tots lightly with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or brush/spray) and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

Bake according to package instructions, about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, deep-fry or air-fry per package/manufacturer instructions and transfer to a serving platter.

While tots bake, make a quick chili: heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add the chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper and 1/4 cup water or beef broth. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently 6–8 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

If you prefer a chunkier or milder chili, reduce the chili powder or mash some of the tomato pieces. Keep warm until ready to assemble.

Cook the bacon until crisp (pan-fry or bake at 400°F/200°C for 12–15 minutes). Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-size pieces.

When the tater tots are hot and crispy, transfer them to an oven-safe platter or keep on the baking sheet. Spoon the warm chili evenly over the pile of tots.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili-covered tots.

Place the loaded tots under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. (Alternatively, return to the 425°F oven for 3–4 minutes.)

Remove from oven. Scatter chopped bacon over the melted cheese, then dollop sour cream over the top or serve sour cream on the side for guests to add.

Garnish with sliced jalapeños, thinly sliced green onions, and cilantro. Add a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Serve immediately while hot, with extra sour cream and hot sauce on the side.