Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots Recipe

Today, we are going to make Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots. This recipe is very easy and can be made with just a few ingredients and in less time. When you are watching movies or playing games and get a craving, you can try these jalapeno tots; they are very delicious and tasty. The previous recipe I made has a similar taste to jalapeno; it’s called Taco Ranch Bites. You should try that too; you will enjoy it.

What are Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots?

Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots are a delicious twist on the classic tater tot, incorporating the bold flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapenos. These homemade tots are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delightful combination of cheesy goodness and a kick of heat. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots are sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

Ingredients

To make Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 jalapenos, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Optional: sour cream and chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot
• Cheese grater
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet

How to Make Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots Recipe?

Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel the potatoes and place them in a large pot of cold water.
• Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are just tender, about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them.
• Drain the potatoes and let them cool completely. Once cooled, grate the potatoes using a cheese grater.

Mix the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.

Shape the Tater Tots

• Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small cylinders or tater tot shapes, about 1-2 inches long.
• Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.

Fry the Tater Tots

• Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
• Carefully place the tater tots into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pot.
• Fry the tots for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the tater tots from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serve

• Arrange the tater tots on a serving platter.
• Garnish with sour cream and chopped green onions if desired.
• Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

What to Eat with Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots

Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. i tried this jalapeno tater tots with Panera Signature Sauce and blieve me that was delicious. You can also try with many foods giving below:

• Ranch dressing
• Ketchup or spicy ketchup
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Guacamole
• Barbecue sauce
• A side of fresh vegetables or a salad for a balanced meal

What Do Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots Taste Like?

Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the inside is soft and cheesy. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, creamy taste, and the jalapenos bring a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor. Each bite is a perfect balance of cheesy, spicy, and savory, making these tots incredibly addictive and delicious.

My Tips for Perfect Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots

• Dry the Potatoes Well: Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated potatoes. This helps the tots hold together better and become crispier.
• Use Fresh Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos give the best flavor and heat. Be sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder taste.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar works well, but you can also try pepper jack for extra spice.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the tater tots in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy, turning them halfway through.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s a nutritional breakdown of Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots per serving (approximately 4 tots):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	150kcal
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	300mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	1g
Protein	5g

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Tater Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture for extra heat.
• Loaded Tater Tots: Top the cooked tots with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a loaded version.
• Veggie Tater Tots: Add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition.

FAQs

How can I make the tots less spicy?

To make the tots less spicy, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, as they contain most of the heat. You can also reduce the number of jalapenos or use a milder pepper.

Can I freeze the tater tots?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked tater tots. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I store leftovers these Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots?

Store any leftover cooked tater tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

Cheddar Jalapeno Tater Tots are an irresistible snack that combines the crispy goodness of traditional tater tots with the bold flavors of cheddar cheese and jalapenos. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed on various occasions, whether it’s a cozy movie night at home or a lively game day with friends. By following this recipe, you’ll create a tasty treat that is sure to impress your family and guests.