Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon are a crispy, savory delight that will have your taste buds dancing. These little potato bites, infused with the smoky flavor of bacon, are not just your average side dish; they are a fun appetizer or a perfect accompaniment to burgers or sandwiches. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, they are sure to become a family favorite!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 210
• Protein: 6g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 26g per serving
• Fat: 10g per serving
• Fiber: 2g per serving
• Sugar: 0g per serving
• Sodium: 350mg per serving

Why Make This Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

Making Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon means bringing the essence of comfort food straight from your kitchen. These tater tots offer the ultimate crunch on the outside and a fluffy interior, enhanced by crispy pieces of bacon. They are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a game day snack or a cozy family dinner. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into them means you can enjoy them guilt-free!

How to Make Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated potatoes
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Grate the potatoes and soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and keeps the tots from being gummy. After soaking, drain the potatoes and dry them thoroughly to achieve maximum crispiness.

### Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped bacon, flour, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together without being too wet. If it’s too loose, add a bit more flour.

### Step 3: Shaping

Form the mixture into small tot shapes. Use your hands to roll them into small cylinders, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is sticking to your hands, wet them slightly with water to make shaping easier.

### Step 4: Cooking

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tater tots in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from golden to burned quickly!

### Step 5: Finishing

Remove the tater tots with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful crunch!

How to Serve Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

These homemade tater tots are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them with a side of dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or even a spicy aioli. They also make a great side dish alongside burgers or as a part of a game day spread.

How to Store Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

If you have leftover tater tots (which is unlikely!), let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon

• Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture.
• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to prevent soggy tots.
• Experiment with seasonings by adding smoked paprika or cheese for different flavors.
• For a healthier version, you can bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until crispy, flipping halfway through.

Delicious Variations

• Cheese Tater Tots: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the mixture for a gooey, cheesy inside.
• Spicy Tater Tots: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give them a spicy kick.
• Herbed Tater Tots: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an aromatic twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen grated potatoes?
  Yes, frozen grated potatoes are a convenient option. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing.

• Can I bake these tater tots instead of frying?
  Absolutely! Bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes for a healthier option.

• What should I do if my mixture is too wet?
  If your mixture is too wet, simply add another tablespoon of flour until it holds together better.

• How can I make these tater tots ahead of time?
  You can prepare the tater tot mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then shape and cook them when ready to serve.

• What type of oil is best for frying?
  Peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil are excellent choices because they handle high temperatures well.

Conclusion

Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon not only satisfy your cravings for crispy snacks but also allow you to customize them according to your preferences. They are a crowd-pleaser and bring a delightful crunch to your table. Give this recipe a try, and watch as they quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy the process and the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while making these tasty treats!