When it comes to game day snacks, nothing brings a crowd together quite like Tailgate Tots. Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of golden, crispy tater tots embraced by savory bacon, a gooey cheese sauce, and the fresh zest of chives—all beautifully presented in quaint mason jars. This is more than just comfort food; it’s a deliciously portable party treat that captures the spirit of tailgating and easy living.
I created this recipe not just for its nostalgic flavors, but also for its convenience. Whether you’re cheerfully grilling at the stadium parking lot or cozying up on your couch while watching the game, these Easy Tailgate Tots are the ultimate answer to beating the fast-food blues. Everyone will love digging into their own personal jar, making this dish not just tasty but also fun to share. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful snack that’s bound to become a game day staple!
Why are Tailgate Tots a Game Changer?
Convenience: No fussing with plates! Serve these in adorable mason jars for easy handling.
Flavor Explosion: Crispy tater tots mixed with smoky bacon and gooey cheese create a mouthwatering combination.
Customizable: Swap ingredients effortlessly for vegetarian options or to add your favorite toppings.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will enjoy their personal portion, sparking conversations over delicious bites.
Quick to Prepare: Whip these up without a hassle, leaving you more time to enjoy the game.
Dive into this recipe and elevate your snack game—it’s a sure win for any occasion!
Tailgate Tots Ingredients
For the Base
- Tater Tots – Conveniently frozen, they form the crispy foundation of your Tailgate Tots; consider making homemade air fryer tots for a fresh touch.
- Bacon – This savory delight adds a smoky flavor; substitute with plant-based bacon for a vegetarian variant.
For the Creamy Layer
- Sour Cream – This creamy ingredient elevates texture; swap with Greek yogurt for a zesty twist.
- Butter – Essential for making the cheesy sauce; margarine can serve as an alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce beautifully; use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Whole Milk – Creates a rich, creamy consistency; opt for non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option.
- Sharp Cheddar – Brings that classic cheesy taste; feel free to use any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda as a substitute.
- Chili Powder – Adds a hint of spice; swap it with paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.
For the Garnish
- Chives – These fresh greens add a burst of color and flavor; green onions can be a great replacement or you can omit them entirely.
Layer these ingredients in mason jars for a game day snack that’s not just tasty but vibrant and fun!
How to Make Tailgate Tots
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Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until it turns golden brown. Gradually add whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in sharp cheddar and chili powder until fully melted and creamy.
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Cook Bacon: In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Once cooked, drain excess fat on paper towels to keep the bacon crispy.
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Layer Ingredients: Grab your wide-mouth mason jars! Begin with a base of crispy tater tots, then layer on some bacon, a dollop of sour cream, followed by a generous pour of the creamy cheese sauce. Repeat the layers until the jars are filled to the top!
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Serve: Enjoy your Tailgate Tots right away while they’re warm and gooey, or cover the jars and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Optional: Top with additional chives or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tailgate Tots Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your own twist on these Tailgate Tots, making them even more exciting for your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap bacon for cooked chili to create a hearty, plant-based alternative that still packs a punch.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat that will ignite your taste buds.
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Buffalo Style: Mix in shredded buffalo chicken for a tangy, spicy twist that’s perfect for chicken lovers.
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Sour Cream Sub: Substitute sour cream with creamy avocado or guacamole for a fresh, zesty flavor that everyone will adore.
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Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like crumbled feta or pepper jack for a bold, unique flavor profile.
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Mushroom Add-in: Toss in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy and savory twist that complements the bold ingredients beautifully.
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Sweet Surprise: Layer in some caramelized onions or sweet corn for a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory elements.
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Fresh Herbs: Boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish that brightens every bite.
When it comes to Tailgate Tots, the potential for delicious creativity is endless!
How to Store and Freeze Tailgate Tots
Fridge: Keep your Tailgate Tots in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure they are covered to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled jars without the sour cream for up to 1 month. To reheat, let thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through and the tots regain their crunch.
Serving Fresh: For the best experience, serve these tasty snacks warm and fresh, especially the creamy cheese sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Tailgate Tots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the bacon up to 3 days in advance. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply layer the prepped tater tots with bacon, cheese sauce, and sour cream in your mason jars. For the freshest taste, consider keeping the sour cream separate until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat the cheese sauce on the stove or in the microwave, assemble your jars, and you’ll have crowd-pleasing Tailgate Tots that are just as delicious as when you first made them!
Expert Tips for Tailgate Tots
- Choose the Right Jar: Wide-mouth mason jars make it easy to enjoy all layers of your Tailgate Tots and look adorable as well.
- Keep it Fresh: If preparing ahead, store sour cream separately until serving to preserve its freshness and texture.
- Layer Up: Don’t be shy with the layers! More layers mean more flavors, so stack generously for a delicious bite.
- Customize as You Wish: Feel free to swap ingredients or try different toppings—like buffalo sauce or blue cheese—to make your Tailgate Tots uniquely yours.
- Reheat for Crunch: If stored, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to keep your tater tots crispy and delicious.
What to Serve with Tailgate Tots?
Imagine gathering around the screen with friends and family, enjoying each delicious bite of beautifully layered snacks that spark joy.
- Crunchy Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast to the warm and cheesy tots, its crispness adds brightness to your plate.
- Spicy Chicken Wings: The sizzling heat of wings pairs perfectly for those who crave a bit of spice alongside creamy bites.
- Guacamole: This creamy, tangy dip enhances the flavor profile and adds a refreshing balance to every mouthful.
- Classic Chili: A hearty side that complements the crunchy texture with warm and savory goodness, creating a comforting duo.
- Beer: The perfect beverage to wash down your snack; a light lager or hoppy IPA enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh, vibrant fruits provide a sweet contrast and add a touch of color to your tailgate spread.
Whether you’re having a game night or hosting a party, these pairings will elevate your Tailgate Tots experience!
Tailgate Tots Recipe FAQs
What type of tater tots should I use in Tailgate Tots?
Absolutely! You can opt for frozen tater tots for convenience, which work wonderfully as a crispy base. If you have the time, I often make homemade air fryer tater tots for an extra special touch. Just ensure they are crispy before layering them in the jars for the best texture.
How should I store leftover Tailgate Tots?
You can keep your Tailgate Tots in the fridge by placing them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure they’re covered properly to maintain their freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to keep that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Tailgate Tots?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, I recommend freezing the assembled jars without the sour cream. Lay them flat in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven to achieve that crispy texture again. It’s a great way to prep ahead!
How can I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?
To avoid clumps, make sure to whisk in the flour and gradually add the milk over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens before adding the cheese. If you find your sauce gets lumpy, try lowering the heat and whisking vigorously to smooth it out. Patience is key when creating that perfect creamy texture!
Are Tailgate Tots suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, they can easily be made vegetarian! Simply swap out the bacon for plant-based bacon, and you can have all the delicious flavors without any meat. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other toppings, like sautéed vegetables or black beans, to amp up the flavor even more!
What can I substitute for sour cream in Tailgate Tots?
If you want an alternative to sour cream, I recommend using Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. For a completely dairy-free option, non-dairy yogurt works just as well, offering that creamy texture you’ll love in your Tailgate Tots.
Irresistible Tailgate Tots: Layered in Mason Jars!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until it turns golden brown. Gradually add whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in sharp cheddar and chili powder until fully melted and creamy.
- In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Once cooked, drain excess fat on paper towels.
- Layer crispy tater tots in a mason jar, followed by bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous pour of the creamy cheese sauce. Repeat the layers until filled.
- Enjoy your Tailgate Tots warm, or cover and store in the fridge until ready to serve.