There’s something magical about comfort food, isn’t there? For me, these Tater Kegs take me straight back to Sunday afternoons with my family, laughing over the table as we munched on crispy potato snacks.
They’re like tater tots but bigger, cheesier, and even more satisfying! I’m excited to share this Tater Kegs Recipe with you so you can bring the same joy to your table. Let’s dive in!
What’s In A Tater Keg?
Think of a tater keg as a supersized tater tot stuffed with cheesy, bacon-filled goodness. It’s crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside—an irresistible appetizer that’s great for game days, parties, or anytime you want to wow your taste buds.
Make These Tater Kegs Recipe In Just A Few Steps
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’re in for:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Appetizer
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 4 large potatoes (Russet works best)
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola works well)
Ingredient Tips:
- Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Bacon Substitute: Turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage works well.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep The Potatoes
- Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Drain well and mash them in a large bowl. Let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Make The Filling
- Mix the mashed potatoes with Colby Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into oval-shaped kegs, about 2 inches long.
Step 3: Coat The Kegs
- Roll each keg lightly in flour.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Roll in breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
Step 4: Fry To Perfection
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the kegs in batches for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tips And Tricks
- Make Ahead: Prep the kegs and freeze them. Fry straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the cooking time.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, spray the kegs with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy ketchup. They also go great with a crisp salad or cold beer!
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Are Tater Kegs the Same as Tater Tots?
Not quite! While tater tots are smaller and typically plain, tater kegs are larger and filled with extra goodies like cheese and bacon. They’re like a gourmet upgrade to the classic tot—perfect for impressing your guests.
Serving Suggestions
Plate these beauties as an appetizer with dipping sauces like:
- Ranch dressing
- Chipotle mayo
- Nacho cheese
For a hearty twist, pile them on a plate, top with chili and shredded cheese, and call it “loaded tater kegs.” Yum!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bake Tater Kegs Instead Of Frying Them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the kegs on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What Type Of Potatoes Work Best?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and hold their shape well when mashed.
Can I Make These Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a tasty alternative.
How Do I Prevent Them From Falling Apart While Frying?
Chill the kegs in the fridge for 15 minutes before frying. This helps them stay firm during cooking.
Ready To Try These Giant Tater Tots?
I’d love to hear how your Tater Kegs Recipe turned out! Snap a picture, share it on social media, and tag me @NazninsKitchen.
Don’t forget to check out my other potato-packed recipes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
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