Another hiccup I encountered was overfilling the cones. I got a bit too excited and packed them too tightly, which caused a mess when trying to take a bite. Remember, there’s such a thing as too much goodness! Being generous with the filling is great, but leave a little wiggle room for the cheese and toppings!
Lastly, don’t skip the part of former cooling before serving. The tater tots need a moment to settle and firm up; otherwise, you’ll risk the cones breaking apart. Trust me; you want them to hold up while you enjoy every cheesy, bacon-filled bite.
Serving Suggestions
These Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones make an excellent appetizer for your next gathering or game day. I love serving them alongside a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added flavor. Guests can customize their cones, adding extra toppings like fresh salsa or guacamole for a twist—this has always been a crowd-pleaser in my home!
For a fun family dinner, pair these cones with a crisp side salad or some sweet potato fries. The flavors complement each other well, and it’s a meal that creates a lively atmosphere around the table.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving these cones with a side of homemade chili. The rich, thick chili pairs beautifully with the crispy cones and takes your meal to the next level—perfect for those cozy evenings when you want a filling dish without too much fuss.
Variations & Customizations
One of the best parts about these cones is how adaptable they are! If you’re looking to make them vegetarian, swap out the beef and bacon for a hearty mixture of sautéed mushrooms, black beans, and corn. Add extra spices for flavor, and you won’t even miss the meat!
I’ve also tried a BBQ chicken variation, substituting cooked shredded chicken and mixing in some barbecue sauce. The sweetness of the BBQ combined with the crispy tater tot shell is a fantastic combination that’s been a huge hit in my kitchen.
Finally, for those late-night cravings or simpler snacks, why not go mini? Use baby tater tots to make bite-sized versions of the cones! Perfect for parties or just an evening with friends, they offer a fun, handheld alternative that everyone can enjoy without feeling too stuffed.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness.
For those who love to meal prep, these cones freeze quite well too! Before baking, carefully place the filled cones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, where they’ll last for a couple of months. Just pop them in the oven frozen when you’re ready to enjoy—a quick and easy dinner solution!
When reheating frozen cones, simply bake at 375°F (190°C) for a bit longer, around 20-25 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they’re heated through and crispy. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making these Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones as much as I do! They’re a delightful way to bring comfort food into a new light and are perfect for any occasion. The crunch, the flavor, and the joy of sharing them with friends and family will make this dish a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!