LOADED TATER TOT APPETIZER CUPS
- WineCheeseScallops
- Jan 21
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 27
Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, these Loaded Tater Tot Appetizer Cups are your new favorite party snack! Bite-sized potato cups packed with melty cheese, smoky bacon, and a creamy Ranch sour cream topping, they’re everything you love about loaded potatoes in a perfectly portable form. Whether you're hosting a game day bash, a casual dinner party, or just treating the family, these irresistible cups are sure to steal the show.
What makes these appetizer cups even better? They’re quick, easy to assemble, and use simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, with the option to customize toppings, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike!
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Tater Tots
Tater tots are the ultimate comfort food, offering crispy, golden exteriors and fluffy, tender insides. In this recipe, they serve as the perfect base for loaded cups, delivering that familiar, nostalgic flavor while creating a crispy, delicious vessel for all the toppings.
Ranch Seasoning
Ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby kick that perfectly complements the richness of the bacon and cheese. It’s a quick and easy way to infuse the sour cream topping with bold, crave-worthy flavor.
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Recipe's Origin | LOADED TATER TOT APPETIZER CUPS
This recipe was inspired by a love of all things loaded and snackable. Tara wanted to recreate the indulgence of loaded potato skins but in a way that’s easier to prepare and serve. By using tater tots, the process is faster, and the mini muffin pan makes portioning effortless.
The concept of potato cups came from experimenting with tart shapers, leading to a crispy, versatile base that can be loaded with endless combinations of toppings. These little bites bring together all the comforting flavors of cheese, bacon, and ranch, making them perfect for parties or family nights.
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Tips, Serving Suggestions, and Storage Advice
Use a silicone muffin pan for easier release of the tater tot cups.
Pre-cook the bacon to your desired crispiness for added texture.
Freeze extra baked cups (without toppings) for quick reheating later.
Try alternative toppings like pulled pork, chili, or guacamole for variety.
Garnish with jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Pair with dipping sauces like spicy mayo, ranch, or BBQ for added flavor.
Serve as a side dish to complement burgers or hot dogs at a barbecue.
Keep the sour cream topping in a piping bag for neat and easy dollops.
Offer a toppings bar for guests to customize their own cups.
Make ahead by prepping the tater tot cups earlier in the day and reheating before serving.
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Unique Recipe Qualities | LOADED TATER TOT APPETIZER CUPS
Bite-sized and easy to serve.
Customizable with a variety of toppings.
Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Quick preparation and bake time.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual family dinners.
Combines crispy, creamy, and savory textures.
Kid-friendly and fun to make together.
Versatile as an appetizer, side, or snack.
Freezer-friendly for convenient meal prep.
A playful twist on classic loaded potatoes.
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Ingredients:
32 oz bag frozen tater tots
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Ranch seasoning
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
¼ cup chives or scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Spray the cups of a muffin pan with cooking spray.
Place 2-3 tater tots in each muffin cup. If using three tots per cup, you may not have enough to fill 48 cups (two mini muffin pans).
Place the muffin pan on the bottom rack of the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven.
Using a tart shaper or a shot glass, press the tots in each muffin cup with a twisting motion to form potato cups. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the cups are deep golden brown.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese into each potato cup. Bake for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove the cups from the pan and transfer them to a serving platter. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and Ranch seasoning until well combined.
Top each potato cup with crumbled bacon, a dollop of the sour cream mixture, and a sprinkle of chopped chives or scallions. Serve warm.
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FAQ Section
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the potato cups in advance and store them without toppings. Reheat in the oven before serving and add toppings fresh.
Q: Can I use regular muffin pans instead of mini ones?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to increase the number of tots and adjust baking times accordingly.
Q: Can these be made vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Just omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based alternatives.
Q: What’s a good substitute for Ranch seasoning?
A: Use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and dill for a similar flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover cups (without toppings) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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