Get ready to transform ordinary frozen tater tots into a mouthwatering, crispy flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds dance! These Smashed Buffalo Tater Tots are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly golden tots with the tangy kick of buffalo sauce and melted cheddar cheese. Whether you're hosting game night, looking for a quick snack, or craving something seriously addictive, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper crisping.
- Bake the tater tots for 15 minutes until they start to become golden and crispy.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and use the bottom of a flat spatula or measuring cup to gently smash each tater tot, creating a flattened, crispy surface.
- Drizzle buffalo sauce evenly over the smashed tater tots, ensuring each tot is generously coated.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the buffalo-sauced tater tots.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, optionally with additional buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips
- Use a flat spatula or measuring cup with a smooth bottom for smashing the tots to ensure an even, crispy surface.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tot some space to crisp up properly.
- For extra crispiness, pat the frozen tots dry before baking to remove any excess moisture.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice preference - start with less and add more if needed.
- For a more indulgent version, try mixing different types of cheese or adding crumbled blue cheese on top.
- Serve immediately after baking to maintain maximum crispiness and flavor.
- Keep an eye on the tots during the final baking stage to prevent burning - ovens can vary in temperature.
- For a complete appetizer experience, serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
