Jalapeño Popper Tater Tot Casserole
A cozy and spicy casserole topped with crispy tater tots and a creamy jalapeño popper filling, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package frozen tater tots Keep frozen until ready to use.
- 8 oz cream cheese Full fat provides the best creaminess.
- 1 cup sour cream Adds tang to the filling.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar recommended.
- 6 slices bacon Cooked until crisp, optional but enhances flavor.
- 2 medium jalapenos Fresh or pickled, depending on heat preference.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- to taste salt Season the filling as needed.
- to taste pepper Season the filling as needed.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Fold in chopped jalapenos and most of the cooked bacon. Reserve a little bacon for topping.
- Spread the creamy mixture evenly in the baking dish and sprinkle some additional cheese on top.
- Arrange frozen tater tots evenly across the top to cover the filling.
Baking
- Bake the casserole until the tots are golden and the filling is bubbling, approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top, then bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving for better texture.
Notes
For extra crispiness, place the casserole on the upper rack for the last few minutes. Store any leftovers in the fridge; they reheat well in the oven or air fryer.