Crispy tater tots are baked until golden, then topped with melted cheddar, bacon, sour cream, and fresh green onions for an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer. Add jalapeños for a little heat, and serve them hot right from the oven.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the dish. Bake according to package directions, usually 20 to 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Remove the tater tots from the oven and sprinkle evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
Transfer the loaded tater tots to a serving platter or leave them in the baking dish. Top with sour cream, green onions, and jalapeños if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the tater tots on the baking sheet. You can also swap cheddar for a cheese blend or omit the jalapeños for a milder appetizer.