There’s something undeniably delightful about snacking your way through a meal, especially when it’s as creative as Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones! Picture this: crispy, golden tater tots shaped into welcoming cones, each one brimming with savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy crumbled bacon. It’s a playful twist on classic comfort food that will catch everyone’s attention at parties or game nights.
After a long week of fast food and takeout, I found myself yearning for something exciting yet simple to whip up. That’s when these cones came to life! Not only do they bring the irresistible flavors of a cheeseburger into a conveniently handheld format, but they also offer endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re looking to swap beef for ground turkey or experiment with pepper jack cheese, this recipe is perfect for everyone, including my vegetarian friends.
Join me on this culinary adventure as we transform familiar ingredients into a fun snack that’s sure to impress—and bring smiles—all around the table!
Why Love Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Fun Twist: These Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones are a playful take on a classic, turning your favorite burger flavors into a snackable delight.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for game day or any gathering, these cones are sure to impress guests of all ages.
Endless Customization: Easily swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based options, and choose from various cheeses to tailor the flavors to your liking.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, you can have these delightful cones ready in no time, bringing joy without the hassle.
Comfort Food Redefined: Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, they deliver all the satisfaction of a cheeseburger in a fun, handheld form!
For more delicious inspiration, check out our other creative handheld snacks.
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these scrumptious Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones!
For the Filling
- Ground Beef – The heart of these cones, providing a rich, savory flavor; feel free to swap it with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter dish.
- Cooked Bacon – Adds a delightful crunch and smoky essence; crumble it for easy layering over your cones.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and enhances flavor; try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a fun twist on the classic taste.
For the Base
- Frozen Tater Tots – The crunchy base that holds everything together; bake till golden and crispy for the best texture.
For Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for elevating the beef’s natural flavor; adjust to your personal taste.
These ingredients come together to create a fun, handheld snack that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in!
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This ensures a perfect bake for those crispy tater tots!
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Bake Tater Tots: Spread the frozen tater tots on a baking tray. Bake them according to the package instructions until they are golden and crispy (usually about 20-25 minutes).
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Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef with salt and pepper. Brown the meat, breaking it into crumbles, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat afterward.
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Shape Tater Tot Cones: Once the tater tots are crispy, carefully shape them into cone forms on a serving plate. Make sure they hold together to contain all the delicious fillings!
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Assemble the Cones: Spoon the cooked beef generously into each cone. Top with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle crumbled bacon on top for that extra crunch.
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Melt the Cheese: Transfer the assembled cones to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling with deliciousness.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cones from the oven and serve them hot! You can offer dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo for extra fun.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Looking to create a memorable meal experience alongside these delightful cones? Here are some perfect pairings to enhance your spread.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the savory richness of the cones perfectly. A tangy dressing enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Zesty Garlic Fries: Crispy fries sprinkled with garlic powder and herbs complement the cones. They bring an extra layer of flavor that burger lovers will adore.
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Classic Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad provides a soothing side, tying in with the nostalgic comfort of the cones. The creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the crunch of the tater tots.
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Spicy Buffalo Wings: For those who love a kick, these wings add excitement to your meal. The heat from the wings perfectly rounds off the savory flavor profile of the cones.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant veggies drizzled with a light vinaigrette bring freshness to the table. It’s a great way to balance the rich flavors of your handheld snack.
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Craft Beer or Cider: A cold, refreshing craft beer or a fruity cider elevates the entire eating experience. Their carbonation cuts through the richness while enhancing the fun vibe.
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Milkshakes: For a sweet finish, consider serving creamy milkshakes. They create an enjoyable sweet and savory pairing, delivering a nostalgic, diner-style comfort.
Serving up these delightful pairings will make your gathering unforgettable while keeping the focus on the star of the show: your Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones!
Expert Tips for Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
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Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure that tater tots have space on the baking tray to achieve even crispness; overcrowding can lead to soggy cones.
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Layer Wisely: For best flavor in your Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones, layer cooked ingredients starting with the beef, followed by cheese, and finishing with bacon.
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Reheat Right: Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a toaster oven to keep them crispy; microwaving may result in sogginess.
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Get Creative: Feel free to mix in unique toppings like jalapeños or pickles to elevate the flavors and personalize your cones!
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the melting cheese; you want it bubbly but not burnt, which can happen quickly in the last few minutes.
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cone Variations
Get creative with your Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones and personalize them to suit your tastes!
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Turkey Twist: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option that’s just as tasty.
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Plant-Based Swap: Use plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly alternative that still packs in the flavor.
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Cheesy Choices: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles and levels of creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a zesty kick that spice lovers will adore.
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Gourmet Touch: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an upscale flair, adding depth and richness to every bite.
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Veggie Boost: Top with fresh diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce after baking for a burst of freshness and crunch, reminiscent of a traditional burger.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular tater tots with gluten-free ones to make these cones accessible to everyone at your gathering.
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Breakfast Variant: Mix in scrambled eggs and chives for a fun breakfast twist that turns your cones into a delightful morning treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the cones and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain their crispiness, keep the tater tots separate until ready to cook. To prep in advance, bake your tater tots according to package instructions, then shape them into cones, and layer the beef, cheese, and bacon. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the assembled cones for 5–7 minutes at 190°C (375°F) until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This allows you to enjoy a delicious snack without last-minute hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones
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Fridge: Store any leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for best results.
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the assembled but unbaked cones on a tray until solid, then wrap each in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
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Reheating: To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
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Airtight Storage: For optimal freshness, ensure any cooked cones are stored in airtight containers, as this helps maintain their delightful crunch!
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones Recipe FAQs
What type of tater tots should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using any frozen tater tots from your local grocery store as they provide that perfect crunch! You can go for regular or extra crispy varieties, just make sure to bake them until they are golden brown for the best texture.
How long can I store leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones in the fridge?
You can store any leftover cones in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in a toaster oven to keep that delightful crispiness intact; microwaving might leave them a bit soggy.
Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Absolutely! To freeze them, assemble the cones but do not bake. Arrange them on a tray and freeze until solid, then wrap each in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 1 month.
How do I reheat frozen Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
To reheat, simply bake the frozen cones directly from the freezer at 190°C (375°F) for about 12–15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. It’s a quick and convenient way to enjoy your tasty snack later!
What substitutions can I make if I have dietary restrictions?
If you need a lighter option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles. For dairy-free diets, try using a vegan cheese substitute that melts well. You can also add or skip toppings as needed to fit personal preferences and dietary needs.
Can I customize the flavors of my Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones?
Definitely! Play around with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to change up the flavor. For added freshness, you can also add toppings like diced tomatoes, pickles, or jalapeños, making these cones your own unique creation!
Amazing Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Cones for Game Day Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Spread the frozen tater tots on a baking tray and bake according to the package instructions for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with salt and pepper for about 5-7 minutes and drain excess fat.
- Once the tater tots are crispy, carefully shape them into cone forms on a serving plate.
- Spoon the cooked beef generously into each cone and top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Transfer the assembled cones to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Remove the cones from the oven and serve them hot with dipping sauces!