Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots
Crispy, sweet, and savory perfection in every bite — ready in minutes with minimal cleanup.
Time Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14–16 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
- Yield: 24 bacon-wrapped tots (serves 4–6 as an appetizer)
Ingredients
- 24 frozen tater tots
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- Toothpicks (optional, but helpful for holding bacon in place)
Optional Additions & Toppings
- Dipping sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Sriracha mayo
- Honey mustard
- Hot onion dip
- Garlic aioli
- Blue cheese dressing
- Toppings ideas:
- Spicy maple glaze
- Shredded cheddar or parmesan
- Chopped green onions or chives
- Light drizzle of honey or glaze for a sweet-salty finish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tots and Bacon
- Cut each bacon slice in half to make 24 strips.
- Let tater tots thaw slightly (about 5 minutes at room temp) so they’re easier to wrap.
2. Wrap Tater Tots
- Wrap one piece of bacon around each tater tot.
- Use a toothpick to secure the bacon ends if needed (especially helpful for thick-cut bacon).
3. Coat in Brown Sugar
- In a medium bowl, gently toss the bacon-wrapped tater tots with brown sugar, coating them evenly.
Tip: Use your hands or a spoon to help press the sugar onto the bacon.
4. Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket — do not stack or overcrowd.
- Air fry for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway, until:
- Bacon is crispy to your liking
- Tater tots are golden and heated through
🔹 5. Serve
- Let cool slightly (the sugar will be hot and sticky).
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and sprinkle on optional toppings for extra flavor.
Pro Tips
- Thick-cut bacon: Yields meatier bites and wraps better without overcooking the tot.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer — air circulation is key for crisping.
- Flip halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar before tossing.
Q&A: Common Questions
Q: Can I use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon?
A: Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time. Turkey or veggie bacon tends to cook faster, so check around the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Q: Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
A: Not completely. A 5-minute thaw helps make wrapping easier and promotes even cooking, but they should still be mostly frozen when you start.
Q: What kind of bacon is best?
A: Thick-cut bacon is ideal for even wrapping and texture, but regular bacon works too—just monitor closely to avoid burning.
Q: How do I keep the bacon from unwrapping?
A: Use toothpicks to secure the ends, especially if you’re using thin or slippery bacon. You can remove them before serving.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Air fry just before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I reheat leftovers?
A: Yes. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to crisp them back up. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the bacon.
Q: What’s a good drink pairing?
A: Craft beers, a citrusy cocktail (like a Paloma or Margarita), or sparkling water with lime make great companions to balance the richness.
🥳 Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots are the ultimate easy, indulgent finger food. They combine nostalgic comfort with crave-worthy crunch and a touch of sweetness. Ideal for entertaining or solo snacking, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat.