Bacon Cheeseburger Stu

Introduction

Bacon cheeseburger stuffed tater tot cones are the ultimate fun-food recipe, combining everything people love about cheeseburgers with the irresistible crunch of tater tots. Crispy on the outside and loaded with savory, cheesy filling on the inside, these cones are perfect for parties, game days, or indulgent family dinners. I first made these when I wanted something playful but filling, and they disappeared faster than any traditional appetizer on the table. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and smoky bacon wrapped in golden tater tots creates bold flavor in every bite. Best of all, they look impressive while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these tater tot cones are guaranteed to grab attention and satisfy cravings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines classic cheeseburger flavors with a crispy twist. It is fun to eat, easy to serve, and perfect for sharing. The cones are customizable and can be baked instead of fried. They are hearty, flavorful, and ideal for casual gatherings or comfort-food nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen tater tots
Tater tots form the crispy outer shell of the cones, providing crunch and structure while holding the filling securely.

Ground beef
Ground beef delivers classic cheeseburger flavor and creates a savory, filling center.

Bacon
Bacon adds smoky richness and enhances the overall depth of flavor.

Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese melts smoothly and provides sharp, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with beef and bacon.

Onion
Onion adds sweetness and aroma, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese.

Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory profile and boosts overall flavor.

Salt
Salt seasons the beef mixture and brings out all the flavors.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and balance.

Ketchup
Ketchup provides classic cheeseburger sweetness and tang.

Mustard
Mustard adds subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness.

Directions

Begin by cooking the bacon until crisp, then chop it into small pieces and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until fully browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and black pepper. Stir in ketchup and mustard, then remove from heat and mix in the chopped bacon and shredded cheese.

Prepare the tater tots according to package instructions until slightly softened but not fully crisp. While warm, press the tater tots into cone-shaped molds or form them carefully around foil cones, pressing tightly to create a solid shell.

Fill each tater tot cone with the bacon cheeseburger mixture. Return them to the oven and bake until the tater tots are golden and crispy and the filling is hot and melted. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 tater tot cones. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 25 to 30 minutes, and total time is under one hour.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover cones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Microwaving is not recommended, as it softens the tater tots.

Variations and Customizations

You can add diced pickles to the filling for extra cheeseburger flavor. Swap cheddar for American or a cheese blend for a creamier center. For a spicy version, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. I have also tried topping the cones with shredded lettuce and a spoonful of burger sauce just before serving, which added freshness and contrast.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Bacon cheeseburger stuffed tater tot cones are a rich, indulgent dish high in protein and carbohydrates. While not a light meal, they are very filling and satisfying. Using lean beef and reduced-fat cheese can slightly lighten the recipe.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Pack Tater Tots Tightly
Press the tots firmly so the cones hold their shape.

Do Not Overfill
Too much filling can cause the cones to split.

Bake for Crispness
Finish baking until the exterior is deeply golden.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

Can I air fry tater tot cones?

Yes, air frying works well for extra crispiness.

What cheese melts best?

Cheddar or American cheese works best.

Can I make them spicy?

Yes, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños.

Are these good for parties?

Yes, they are ideal finger food for gatherings.

Can I freeze them?

Freeze before final baking for best results.

What can I serve with them?

Fries, salad, or dipping sauces pair well.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a good substitute.

Why are my cones falling apart?

The tater tots may not have been packed tightly enough.

Can I add sauce on top?

Yes, burger sauce or cheese sauce works well.

Conclusion

Bacon cheeseburger stuffed tater tot cones are a bold, fun, and indulgent recipe that delivers big flavor in every bite. Crispy on the outside and loaded with cheesy, savory filling, they are perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to an over-the-top comfort-food experience.

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