Basket Of Tots Recipe

Preheat

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer frying, heat a deep skillet with 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or a lightly oiled sheet pan. Leave small gaps so they crisp evenly.

Lightly toss or brush the tater tots with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to promote browning. Sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika if using.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark, until tots are golden brown and crisp. If frying: cook batches for 3–4 minutes until golden, drain on paper towels, then season immediately with salt, pepper and paprika.

When the tots have about 2 minutes left in the oven, pull the baking sheet out and evenly sprinkle 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar over the tots.

Return to the oven for 2 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. If using a broiler, watch closely and broil 30–60 seconds to melt; remove once cheese is bubbling and edges are golden.

Remove the tray and immediately sprinkle 3 tablespoons crumbled bacon and 2 tablespoons sliced green onions over the melted cheese so they adhere to the warm cheese. Add sliced pickled jalapeños if using.

Divide the dipping sauces into small bowls: place 1/2 cup ranch, 1/4 cup ketchup and 1/4 cup sriracha mayo in three separate ramekins.

Garnish the ranch with 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives. If preparing sriracha mayo from scratch, combine 3 tablespoons mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon sriracha and adjust to taste.

If serving as a 'basket,' transfer the cheesy tots to a shallow serving basket or platter lined with a paper liner or parchment. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Offer the three dipping sauces alongside and sprinkle extra green onions or chives for color. Serve with napkins and tongs or a serving spoon and enjoy.