Game-Day Cheesy Bacon Tots

Game nights call for snacks that are quick, easy, big on flavor, and gone five minutes after they hit the table. These cheesy bacon tots check all the boxes. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and loaded with smoky bacon… they’re the snack everyone grabs first and then pretends they didn’t eat half the pan.

Cheesy bacon tots fresh out of the oven, golden and crispy

Why These Cheesy Bacon Tots Always Win on Game Day

When it comes to game day food, I want something that feeds a crowd without keeping me stuck in the kitchen — and these tots do exactly that.

• Easy prep – frozen tater tots are doing most of the work

• Big flavor – bacon and cheese never need an explanation

• Perfect finger food – no plates, no forks, no rules

• Crowd-approved – if they disappear fast, you know they’re good

That crispy tot + gooey cheese + salty bacon combo is dangerous in the best way.

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Tots That Stay Crispy

The trick here is letting the tots get nice and crispy before you add anything on top.

1. Bake the tots first

   Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.

   
   

2. Add the good stuff

   Sprinkle shredded cheddar (or whatever melty cheese you love) over the hot tots. Top with cooked, crumbled bacon.

   
   

3. Back to the oven

   Return the pan to the oven for 5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

   
   

4. Extra crispy Option

   Want more crunch? Flip the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely — it goes fast.

5. Extra-crispy option

   Flip the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if you want extra crunch. Watch closely — it goes fast.

   
   

   Crispy underneath, melty on top… exactly how they should be.

Easy Game Night Hosting Tips

A few simple extras go a long way:

• Set out dipping sauces like ranch, spicy ketchup, or smoky aioli

• Add something fresh (veggies or a simple salad) to balance the richness

• Keep the tots warm in a low oven so people can keep snacking

Easy Ways to Switch Them Up

Once you’ve made these once, you’ll start riffing:

• Add sliced jalapeños for a little heat

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda

• Finish with chopped chives or parsley

• Try pancetta or turkey bacon for a twist

  
  

These cheesy bacon tots are one of those recipes that always show up, always disappear, and always get requested again. Exactly the kind of game-night food I love.