There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a crunchy, cheesy creation that combines two beloved comfort foods. Picture this: the satisfying crunch of crispy tater tots encasing a savory filling of smoky beef, bacon, and melted cheese, all neatly served in a fun cone shape. I first crafted these Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones when I was looking for a new way to impress friends during game night. The cheers that erupted after the first bite were unforgettable!
Perfect for casual gatherings, these whimsical bites bring a playful twist to classic American flavors that everyone loves. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize—whether you prefer ground turkey for a lighter option, different cheeses for a flavor twist, or even plant-based crumbles for vegetarian friends, the possibilities are endless. Each delicious cone offers a satisfying crunch that balances perfectly with the hearty filling, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s elevate your next meal with these delightful treats!
Why Love Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Uniquely Fun: These Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones take comfort food to new heights with their playful cone shape, perfect for parties or cozy movie nights.
Crispy Delight: Enjoy a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with a warm, hearty filling.
Flavorful Flexibility: Customize your cones with options like ground turkey or pepper jack cheese for a personal touch.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up without breaking a sweat!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These scrumptious bites are sure to impress both friends and family, similar to my beloved Taco Flavored Breadsticks.
Quick Cooking: In just 20 minutes, you can serve up an irresistible dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering.
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Beef – Primary protein; use lean ground beef for less grease.
- Beef Bacon – Adds a rich, smoky flavor; substitute with pork bacon or turkey bacon if preferred.
- Diced Onions – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Ketchup – Provides moisture and tang; barbecue sauce can offer a different flavor profile.
- Mayonnaise – Enhances creaminess; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Mustard – Offers acidity and a slight tang; Dijon makes for a gourmet twist.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust to your taste.
For the Tater Tot Cones
- Frozen Tater Tots – The crispy base for the cones; ensure they are fully frozen before hollowing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess and sharp flavor; swap with gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides stretchiness and additional creaminess; mixing with cheddar creates a cheesier experience.
These tasty Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones are easily customizable, so feel free to experiment with variations that reflect your personal taste!
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 220°C (425°F) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the filling. This ensures a crispy finish!
Cook the beef: In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep it lean and tasty.
Combine flavors: Stir in crumbled beef bacon, diced onions, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld, and then remove from heat.
Hollow the tots: Carefully hollow out each frozen tater tot using a small knife or spoon to create a cone shape. Handle with care to maintain their structure!
Fill the cones: Spoon the beef-bacon mixture into each hollowed tater tot cone, packing them well to maximize flavor in every bite.
Add the cheese: Top each filled cone generously with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This cheesy layer is the crowning glory of your tater tot creations!
Bake to perfection: Place the cones in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Get ready for that delightful aroma!
Optional: Serve with extra ketchup, ranch dressing, and pickles for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
- Hollow with Care: Ensure to carefully hollow out each tater tot, maintaining their shape for sturdy cones that hold the filling well.
- Keep it Crispy: For the crispiest texture, serve your Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones immediately after baking; they taste best fresh!
- Assembly Ahead: If preparing ahead, store the filling separately in the fridge and fill the cones just before baking to avoid sogginess.
- Taste Test Options: Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda in your cones for flavorful variations that cater to your crowd.
- Bacon Choices: Experiment with different bacon options, such as turkey bacon or plant-based crumbles, to cater to various dietary preferences.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the unbaked tater tot cones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the cones in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the filling and prepare cones ahead of time, but store them separately to keep the tater tots from becoming soggy before baking.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the savory beef-bacon filling up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavors. Additionally, you can hollow out the tater tots and keep them frozen until you’re ready to assemble them. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill each cone with the prepared mixture, top with cheese, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. This makes it easy to whip up a fun and satisfying meal even on your busiest days—just as delicious as when made fresh!
Variations & Substitutions for Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cones to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
- Turkey Twist: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter filling that’s still packed with flavor.
- Plant-Based Option: Use plant-based crumbles instead of beef for a tasty vegetarian version that everyone will love.
- Cheesy Heat: Substitute shredded cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that elevates every bite.
- Decadent Gouda: Experiment with gouda cheese for a rich and creamy alternative that’s sure to impress.
- Bacon Variety: Try turkey bacon or beef bacon for a different flavor profile without sacrificing that smoky goodness.
- Saucy Substitution: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a tangy twist that complements the savory filling beautifully.
- Creamy Swap: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy, lighter enhancement to the filling.
- Onion Replacement: If you’re not a fan of onions, thinly sliced scallions or chives can add a milder flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Let your imagination run wild and craft your very own signature Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones!
What to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Pairing these delightful cones with complementary sides can transform your meal into a celebratory feast. Let’s make your gathering unforgettable!
Crispy French Fries: The classic side that’s well-loved—crispy, golden fries provide an extra crunch and are perfect for dipping.
Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds a delightful contrast and a burst of color to your plate, balancing the richness of the cones.
Classic Caesar Salad: This creamy, garlicky salad brings greens to the table, creating a light yet satisfying complement to the hearty cones.
Homemade Ranch Dressing: Serve a side of cool ranch dressing for dipping. Its creamy texture and zesty flavor pair well with the savory tater tot cones.
Sweet Potato Wedges: For a healthier twist, sweet potato wedges are both nutritious and delicious, offering a hint of natural sweetness that complements the savory cones.
Refreshing Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade adds a sweet-tart zing, quenching your thirst and enhancing the flavors of your meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies. The nostalgia of comfort food pairs perfectly with your savory cones!
These pairing ideas will elevate your experience, creating a delicious spread that friends and family will rave about!
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the tater tots?
Absolutely! Use frozen tater tots for the best results. They provide the ideal crunchy exterior that holds up well when hollowed into cones. Ensure they are fully frozen before starting to hollow them out to maintain their shape.
How do I properly store any leftover cones?
You can store leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For maximum freshness, it’s best to consume them within this timeframe. Just remember to reheat them in the oven for that crispy texture!
Can I freeze the tater tot cones?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time—around 20-25 minutes should do it!
What if my filling is too runny?
Very! If your filling seems too runny, try adding a bit of shredded cheese or breadcrumbs to thicken it up. If you’re using juicy toppings like tomatoes or pickles, make sure to drain any excess moisture before adding them to your mixture. This will help maintain the perfect texture in each cone.
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies or pets?
Absolutely! Always check for allergies with guests if you’re serving these delicious cones. Be cautious with ingredients like bacon, which might not suit everyone, and keep them away from pets, especially if they contain onions or excessive fat, which can be harmful to them.
Can I substitute any ingredients for lighter options?
Very! Feel free to swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option. You can also replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, while still ensuring a creamy texture. This adaptability makes these cones a versatile choice for a variety of dietary preferences!
Irresistibly Crunchy Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the filling.
- In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in crumbled beef bacon, diced onions, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Carefully hollow out each frozen tater tot using a small knife or spoon to create a cone shape.
- Spoon the beef-bacon mixture into each hollowed tater tot cone, packing them well.
- Top each filled cone generously with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Place the cones in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
