Loaded Tots Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup.

Toss the frozen tater tots with the vegetable oil, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.

Spread the tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving small gaps between pieces so they crisp evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through (around 10–12 minutes), until golden brown and crisp. If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking basket halfway.

Cook bacon

While the tots bake, cook the bacon: place bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp, about 8–10 minutes. Alternatively, bake bacon on a foil-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Transfer cooked bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then crumble or chop into small pieces.

Combine the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella in a bowl and toss briefly so they mix evenly.

When tater tots are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the hot tots, then scatter the crumbled bacon on top.

Return the sheet to the oven for 2–4 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye so cheese doesn’t brown too much.

While cheese melts, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, and milk in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk 1 tsp at a time if you prefer thicker or thinner consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning — if your ranch is already seasoned, no additional salt is likely needed. Set aside until ready to finish the tots.

Once cheese is melted, remove the loaded tots from the oven. Let them rest 1–2 minutes so cheese firms slightly and doesn’t run off.

Drizzle the creamy ranch evenly over the cheese-and-bacon-topped tots (use a spoon or squeeze bottle for control).

Scatter the sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and optional pickled jalapeños over the top. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

For serving: place on a platter or divide into 4 appetizer portions. Provide extra ranch on the side if desired.