Loaded Tater Cups

Loaded Tater Cups are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic loaded baked potato. These bite-sized treats are made by pressing tater tots into mini muffin tins to form crispy little cups, then filling them with melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for parties, game day, or as a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bite-sized and perfect for entertaining
• Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
• Quick and easy with just a few ingredients
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Great for kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen tater tots
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions or chives
• Non-stick cooking spray

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place 2–3 frozen tater tots into each mini muffin cup. Bake for 10 minutes to soften.
3. Form the cups by using a spoon or small cup to press the tots into the shape of a cup, creating a well in the center.
4. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cups are golden brown and crispy.
5. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese into each cup and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
6. Top and serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then top each tater cup with a dollop of sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 24 mini tater cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or black beans
• Breakfast twist: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage
• Cheese options: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer until crispy
• Freezing: Freeze baked (but untopped) tater cups for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen and add toppings after warming

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bake and shape the tater cups in advance. Store in the fridge, then reheat and add toppings before serving.

Do I have to use a mini muffin tin?

Mini muffin tins are best for bite-sized portions, but regular tins can be used for larger servings—just adjust bake time.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based sour cream alternative.

What if I don’t have tater tots?

You can grate potatoes and press them into the tins, but tater tots give the best consistency and crispness.

Can I serve them cold?

They’re best served warm, when the cheese is melted and the tots are crispy.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tater tots and toppings are certified gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked tater tots?

Pre-cooked tots can work, but may be harder to shape into cups. Reheat slightly to soften before pressing.

What dips go well with these?

Try ranch, chipotle aioli, buffalo sauce, or sriracha mayo.

Can I air-fry them?

You can air-fry the tater cups in batches at 400°F until crispy, then add cheese and toppings.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! Kids can press the tots, add cheese, and customize their own toppings.

Conclusion

Loaded Tater Cups are an easy, delicious, and fun way to serve up big flavor in a small bite. With their crispy tater tot base and customizable toppings, they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or even breakfast. Make a batch today and watch them disappear!

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