Get ready to transform an ordinary side dish into a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for your recipe! These Sweet Bacon Tator Tots are not just another appetizer - they're a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crispy in every single bite. Imagine golden, crunchy tator tots glazed with a decadent maple-sugar mixture and topped with crisp bacon crumbles that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a crowd-pleasing snack, or simply want to elevate your comfort food game, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen tator tots
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Spread the frozen tator tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Drain on paper towels and carefully crumble into small pieces.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the tator tots in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Remove the tator tots from the oven and drizzle the maple-sugar mixture evenly over the tots. Sprinkle crumbled bacon pieces on top.
- If using, scatter chopped pecans over the tator tots for additional crunch and flavor.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. The glaze will be extremely hot, so handle with care.
- Serve immediately as a sweet and savory appetizer or side dish. Best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
Tips
- Use parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - this ensures each tator tot gets crispy and golden.
- Cook bacon until extra crisp for the best crumbling texture.
- Whisk the maple-sugar mixture thoroughly to ensure smooth, even glazing.
- Turn tator tots halfway through initial baking for uniform browning.
- Watch the glaze closely in the final 5-10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Let the tots cool slightly to allow the glaze to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the dish.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor impact.
- Consider making a double batch - these will disappear quickly!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
