Tailgate Tots with Cheddar, Bacon, and Chive Layered Dip Recipe
Tailgate Tots is a delicious and hearty snack perfect for game day or any casual gathering. This recipe features crispy grilled tater tots layered with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, crispy bacon, fresh chives, and sour cream, making for a comforting and flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare on the grill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 32-oz. package tater tots
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
Toppings
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 container sour cream (approx. 8 oz.)
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat to prepare for cooking the tater tots.
- Grill Tater Tots: Spray two disposable pie plates with cooking spray and spread the tater tots in a single layer in each plate. Place them on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Once done, set aside.
- Cook Bacon: While the tots are grilling, heat a sauté pan over medium heat and fry the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a deep-walled sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth slurry. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, creating a thin sauce. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese and chili powder, stirring until fully melted and combined. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Layered Tots: In small bowls or wide-mouthed mason jars, layer the grilled tater tots followed by the cheese sauce, cooked bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped chives. Continue layering until containers are filled to the top.
Notes
- You can prepare these layered tots in advance and refrigerate for a quick reheat before serving.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor; however, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend.
- Make sure to stir the tater tots regularly on the grill to achieve uniform crispiness without burning.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Keywords: tater tots, grilled tots, tailgate recipe, cheese sauce, bacon, game day snacks, layered tots, appetizer
