Go Back
Tater Tot Appetizer Cups Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Tater Tot Appetizer Cups Recipe

I have to tell you, the first time I made these tater tot appetizer cups, I was amazed at how easy they were and how impressed everyone at the party looked when they saw them. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and loaded on the inside, these little bites are pure comfort food
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen tater tots – 1 bag about 32 ounces. Make sure to use frozen tots for that crisp texture; they won’t hold the cup shape as well if homemade.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup freshly shredded. Freshly shredding the cheese makes it melt beautifully and gives you that amazing cheese pull.
  • Sour cream – 1/2 cup. For a lighter option you can swap plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
  • Bacon bits – 1/2 cup cooked and chopped. Crisp bacon adds that savory crunch.
  • Chives – 2 tablespoons finely chopped. Adds a fresh flavor and pretty green color.
  • Cooking spray – as needed. Helps tots not stick to the muffin tin.

Method
 

  1. Start by preheating your oven and spraying a muffin tin with cooking spray. Place 5–7 frozen tots in each muffin well, depending on size. Bake them until golden and slightly crisp.
  2. Once the tots are cooked, use a small glass or measuring cup to press them down into the muffin wells. Twist slightly to form a cup shape with edges reaching near the top. This makes a perfect little vessel for your fillings.
  3. Fill each tater tot cup with freshly shredded cheddar. I like using a small melon baller to evenly distribute the cheese. Bake briefly until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  4. Garnish with cooked bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped chives. You can also get creative with sauces like ranch, BBQ, or a little salsa drizzle. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • I always use freshly shredded cheese—it makes a huge difference in melt and texture.
  • I make sure not to overcrowd the muffin tin; each cup needs space to crisp evenly.
  • I like to let the cups cool slightly before filling so they hold shape better.
  • Using a small glass for pressing tots ensures uniform cups every time.
  • I occasionally sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder on the tots before baking for extra flavor.