Get ready to take your game day snacks to the next level with these Tailgate Tots! Crispy golden tater tots topped with creamy cheese sauce, savory beef, tangy sour cream, and fresh chives — it’s the ultimate comfort food in a bowl (or jar!). Whether you’re tailgating, hosting friends, or just craving something fun and cheesy, this recipe delivers everything you love about loaded nachos — but with tots instead! Easy to make, totally customizable, and guaranteed to score big with any crowd.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Simple steps and ready in about 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for tailgates, parties, or game nights.
- Cheesy Goodness: That creamy homemade cheddar sauce is irresistible.
- Fun Twist: A creative spin on loaded fries — tots make it even better!
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like bacon bits, jalapeños, or even pulled pork.
These Tailgate Tots stand out because of the rich, homemade cheese sauce that clings perfectly to every crispy tot. It’s comfort food that makes everyone smile and come back for seconds.
Ingredients Needed
For the Base:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 8 slices beef, chopped (or substitute with bacon or ground beef)
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 container sour cream
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 2/3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, for a mild kick
Tip: Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce — pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting evenly.
How to Make Tailgate Tots
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly spray two disposable pie plates or grill-safe pans with nonstick cooking spray. This helps the tots crisp up evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Grill the Tots
Spread tater tots in a single layer across both plates. Grill for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Set aside once done — you want that perfect crunch!
Step 3: Cook the Beef
While the tots grill, cook the chopped beef in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté until crispy or nicely browned, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any extra grease. This keeps your tots from getting soggy later.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a smooth paste — this is your roux, which thickens the sauce.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Add in cheddar cheese and chili powder, stirring until melted and silky smooth. Remove from heat.
Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, whisk in a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.
Step 5: Build the Layers
In small bowls or wide-mouthed mason jars, start layering:
- A base of crispy tots
- A drizzle of cheese sauce
- A sprinkle of cooked beef
- A dollop of sour cream
- A handful of chopped chives
Repeat layers until you reach the top. Serve warm and dig in!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve these tots right away while they’re hot and cheesy.
- For a party, set up a Tailgate Tot Bar — let guests build their own with toppings like jalapeños, pulled pork, guacamole, or diced tomatoes.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
- Avoid microwaving — it can make the tots soggy.
Helpful Notes
- Make Ahead: Cook your beef and prep the cheese sauce a day early; just warm before assembling.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or top with hot sauce for extra heat.
- Meat-Free Option: Skip the beef and load with black beans or sautéed mushrooms.
- Extra Creamy Tip: Add a splash of cream cheese or sour cream directly into the cheese sauce for extra richness.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or hosting a casual get-together, Tailgate Tots bring all the comfort and fun to the table. They’re crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor — everything a great snack should be!
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating below — I’d love to hear how your version turned out!
And don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook — your friends will definitely want this one.
What’s your favorite topping combo for loaded tots? Let’s chat in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bake the tater tots instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella work great. Just make sure it melts smoothly.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour for the cheese sauce.
Why did my cheese sauce turn grainy?
That usually happens if the cheese is added over high heat. Lower the heat and stir gently for a smooth, creamy sauce.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze cooked tots separately and reheat them before assembling.
Tailgate Tots
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly spray two grill-safe pans or disposable pie plates with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Spread tater tots evenly across the pans and grill for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Set aside to keep warm.
- Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped beef until browned and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Step 4: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar and chili powder until melted and creamy. Remove from heat.
- Step 5: To assemble, layer crispy tots, cheese sauce, cooked beef, sour cream, and chopped chives in bowls or mason jars. Repeat layers and serve warm.