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Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs

Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs

DishCharm
A loaded comfort snack featuring crispy tater tots stuffed with smoky pulled pork, melted cheese, and bacon. These bite-sized bombs are perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Assembly Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bombs
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Muffin tin Greased to prevent sticking during assembly.
  • 1 Baking Sheet For pre-baking tater tots and catching drips during final baking.
  • 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing pulled pork mixture and other ingredients.
  • Optional Meat Thermometer To ensure pulled pork is heated through if reheating leftovers.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 24–30 pieces Frozen tater tots Standard-sized tots work best; avoid sweet potato or flavored varieties.
  • 2 cups Cooked and shredded pulled pork Use smoked pulled pork for best results.
  • ½ cup Smoky barbecue sauce Adjust sweetness and tanginess to taste.
  • 1½ cups Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; Monterey Jack works for creamier texture.
  • 6–8 slices Thick-cut bacon Cooked until crispy and crumbled.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika Enhances smoky flavor.
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder Adds savory depth.
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.

Optional Garnishes

  • 2 tbsp Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare and Bake Tater Tots:

    • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread frozen tater tots evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
    • Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before handling.

    Make Smoky Pulled Pork:

    • In a mixing bowl, combine shredded pulled pork, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the pork evenly. Set aside.
    • Assemble the Tater Tot Bombs:

    Grease a muffin tin. Place 3–4 pre-baked tater tots at the bottom of each muffin cup, pressing gently to form a base.

    • Add a spoonful of the seasoned pulled pork over the tater tots. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
    • Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the cheese. Press gently to compact the layers without breaking the tots.

    Bake the Bombs:

    • Place the muffin tin on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the filling is hot, and the tater tots are crispy.

    Garnish and Serve:

    • Let the bombs cool for 2–3 minutes before removing from the tin. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro. Serve warm with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
      • Freezing: Freeze unbaked or baked bombs individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
      • Substitutions: Use shredded chicken or beef instead of pulled pork for variety. Swap cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for different flavors.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are needed for Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs?
      • Frozen tater tots, cooked and shredded pulled pork, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, smoky barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
       
    2. Can you provide step-by-step cooking instructions for Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs?
      • Preheat the oven, bake tater tots until crispy, prepare the pulled pork mixture, assemble the bombs in a muffin tin, and bake again until hot and melty.
       
    3. How long does it take to prepare and cook Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs?
      • Prep takes about 30 minutes, assembly takes 15 minutes, and cooking takes 40 minutes, totaling 85 minutes.
       
    4. What are some good dipping sauces for Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs?
      • Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy mustard work well.
       
    5. Are there any tips for getting the perfect smoky flavor in the pulled pork?
      • Use smoked pulled pork or season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
       
    6. Can Smoky Pulled Pork Bacon Tater Tot Bombs be made in advance and frozen?
      • Yes, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure thorough heating.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce for a spicy kick. Use fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for brightness.
    • Presentation: Arrange the bombs on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces for a colorful and inviting display.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftover bombs into a casserole by layering them with additional cheese and baking until bubbly.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions or cilantro over the bombs for freshness and color.
    • Serving Style: Serve on a wooden board or platter with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.
    • Pairings: Include coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
    Keyword Loaded Comfort Food, Pulled Pork Snack, Tater Tot Bombs