Looking for a 20-minute tater tot appetizers recipe that’ll wow your guests? These crispy tater tot cups transform frozen tots into golden-brown vessels for melty cheese and bacon. They’re perfect for game day spreads or casual entertaining.
I tested six different pressing methods, and a shot glass creates the perfect cup shape without breaking the tots. The edges get extra crispy while the inside stays tender.
At-a-Glance
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 cups
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best For: Game day, parties, potlucks
• Equipment: 12-cup muffin tin, shot glass
Why This Works
• Double-baking method creates ultra-crispy edges and prevents soggy bottoms
• Shot glass pressing technique forms perfect cups without breaking the tots
• The cup shape catches all toppings – no sliding off like regular loaded tots
• Works with frozen tots straight from the bag – no thawing needed
Ingredients & Smart Swaps
• 48 frozen tater tots (4 per cup)
- Store brand tots work fine
- Hash brown patties can work (cut to fit)
- Sweet potato tots add nice color variety
• 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack melts beautifully
- Mexican blend adds nice spice
- Avoid pre-shredded (waxy coating prevents proper melting)
• 3/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (about 6 strips)
- Turkey bacon works (cook until extra crispy)
- Vegetarian bacon bits in a pinch
- Diced ham is a good substitute
• Toppings
- Sour cream or ranch dressing
- Fresh herbs (parsley/chives)
- Hot sauce
- Green onions
Just like our [Mini Quiche Trio Party Finger Foods], these cups are endlessly customizable. And unlike some [Easy Cold Party Appetizers], these stay warm and crispy for about an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly. Each cavity needs a good coating to prevent sticking.
-
Place 4 frozen tots in each cup. They should fit snugly but not overlap. Bake 10 minutes until just starting to brown.
-
Remove from oven. Press each tot cluster with a shot glass, forming cup shapes. The tots should be soft enough to mold but not mushy.
-
Add cheese and bacon to each cup. Return to oven for 15-20 minutes until edges are deep golden brown and cheese bubbles.
-
Let cool 3-5 minutes before removing. A butter knife around the edges helps release them cleanly.
Like our [Elegant Snacks Party Appetizers], presentation matters. Add toppings just before serving for the best look.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
• Don’t underbake the first round – tots need to be soft enough to press
• Press firmly but gently – too much force will crack the tots
• Watch for over-browning in the last 5 minutes
• Let cups cool slightly before removing to maintain shape
• If making ahead, reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to re-crisp
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
• Store cooled cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze fully cooked cups for up to 1 month
• Reheat frozen cups at 375°F for 8-10 minutes
• Add fresh toppings after reheating
Just like our [Ultimate Potato Soup Comfort Food], these reheat beautifully without losing texture.
Variations
- Pizza Cups: Top with marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni
- Breakfast Cups: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage
- Buffalo Style: Top with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese
- Mexican Cups: Use chorizo, Mexican cheese blend, and jalapeños
Similar to our [Quick Seafood Stew With Mussels Fish], these variations keep the basic technique while offering new flavors.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but add toppings just before serving. Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Why are my tots falling apart?
Either the tots weren’t baked long enough before pressing, or too much pressure was used. The first bake should be exactly 10 minutes.
Can I use a mini muffin tin instead?
Yes, use 2 tots per cup and reduce total baking time by 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully for browning.
💡 Loved this recipe? Follow Us on Pinterest for more!
Easy 20-Minute Tater Tot Appetizers Recipe
Equipment
- Muffin Tin
- Shot glass
- Oven
Ingredients
Main
- 48 pieces frozen tater tots 4 per cup
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese Avoid pre-shredded
- 3/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon About 6 strips
Toppings
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly.
- Place 4 frozen tots in each cup. Bake for 10 minutes until starting to brown.
- Press each tot cluster with a shot glass, forming cup shapes.
- Add cheese and bacon to each cup. Return to oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 3-5 minutes before removing.