For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick. Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or Colby jack.
These savory bites deliver the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger nestled in a crispy tater tot crust. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun snack, they’re a delightful twist on familiar favorites.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin generously with cooking spray. Place two tater tots into each cup. (2 minutes)
Bake until tater tots are warmed through and slightly crispy, about 15 minutes. Use the back of a round tablespoon to press the tater tots into each muffin tin, forming a cup. Leave oven on. (17 minutes)
Place bacon slices in a cold skillet (cast iron preferred). Cook over medium-high heat until browned and crispy on the bottom, 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook until browned on the other side, about 2 minutes more. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and pat off excess fat. Chop coarsely. (10 minutes)
Discard all but 1/2 tablespoon bacon fat from the skillet. Return to medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, without stirring, until browned on the bottom. Break into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon and cook until just barely pink, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from heat and spoon off any excess liquid and fat. (15 minutes)
Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Montreal steak seasoning. Cool slightly, about 10 minutes, then stir in chopped bacon and shredded cheese. (12 minutes)
Spoon beef mixture into tater tot cups, dividing equally. (5 minutes)
Bake until cheese is melted and bites are slightly browned on top, about 10 minutes. (10 minutes)
Cool slightly in the muffin tin, then transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley. (5 minutes)
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick. Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or Colby jack.
Ward Kuhlman
Jun 27, 2025These were a huge hit at my Super Bowl party! Everyone loved them.
Irwin Keebler
Jun 21, 2025My kids are obsessed with these. So easy to make and they disappear quickly.
Raegan Koch
Jun 12, 2025I added a dollop of sour cream on top and it was amazing!