Taco Stuffed Tater Tot Cups

Taco stuffed tater tot cups were actually a spur-of-the-moment creation during a movie night when I realized we had no chips left for nachos so I grabbed a bag of frozen tots and decided to improvise and they were such a hit I ended up making a second batch before the movie was even halfway through.

Now they’re one of my favorite party snacks because they combine everything I love about tacos and crispy potatoes into one perfectly cheesy bite and whether it’s for game day or just a fun dinner idea these always disappear fast from the table.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Tater tots – Form the crispy potato cup that holds all the taco goodness
• Ground beef – A classic taco filling that brings richness and flavor
• Taco seasoning – Adds that familiar bold Tex-Mex taste
• Onion – Gives a sweet and savory flavor base to the meat
• Salsa – Brings in moisture and a bit of tangy kick
• Shredded cheese – Melts into the filling and adds gooeyness on top
• Fresh cilantro or parsley – Optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness

Tools You’ll Need

• Muffin tin – Helps shape the tater tots into little cups that can hold the filling
• Oven – To bake the tater tots and melt the cheese
• Skillet – For cooking the taco meat and onion mixture
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir the beef and seasoning evenly
• Measuring cups – For accurate ingredient amounts
• Cheese grater – If using block cheese for extra freshness

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

I preheat my oven to 425°F so the tater tots bake up extra crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Tater Tot Cups

I lightly grease a muffin tin then place about 5 tater tots into each cup and bake them for 10 minutes to soften. Once softened I use a spoon or small cup to press them down and shape them into little cups then bake for another 10–15 minutes until they’re crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Taco Meat

While the cups bake I cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat breaking it up until browned then I stir in the taco seasoning and a couple spoonfuls of salsa to keep it juicy.

Step 4: Fill the Cups

I remove the muffin tin from the oven and spoon the taco mixture into each crispy tot cup filling them almost to the top.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake Again

I sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each cup then return the tray to the oven for another 5–7 minutes just until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven I let them cool slightly and top with a little chopped cilantro for that extra taco-style freshness before serving.

Tips

You can make the tot cups ahead of time and reheat them with filling and cheese when ready to serve

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey chicken or a meatless crumble if preferred

I sometimes add a tiny dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top right before serving

Ways to Serve

As a game-day snack or party appetizer that’s easy to grab and eat

Paired with a fresh salad for a fun taco-themed dinner

On a platter with extra toppings like jalapeños diced tomatoes or hot sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Taco Stuffed Tater Tot Cups?

Yes! Just let them cool fully then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in the oven until hot and crispy again.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Definitely. Use black beans or a plant-based meat alternative in place of the ground beef.

How do I keep the cups from falling apart?

Make sure the tater tots are well-pressed into the muffin cups and baked until fully crisp before adding filling.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these taco stuffed tater tot cups soon! They’re crunchy cheesy and full of flavor in every bite and I’d love to hear what toppings or twists you add to make them your own. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next snack night or party table!

Happy Cooking!

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