Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a showstopping party snack or a playful dinner that’ll have everyone talking, you’ve landed on the right recipe. Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones combine crispy tater tots, saucy cheeseburger filling, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese all wrapped up in the cutest (and tastiest) cone shape. Each bite is packed with that classic cheeseburger flavor, plus the crunch of golden tots—trust me, these are impossible to resist and always a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to whip up Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones. Every item plays a role in building layers of flavor, from the robustly seasoned beef to the irresistible cheese blend that gets bubbly and golden in the oven.

• Ground beef (1 lb): The star of your burger filling, bringing juices and richness.
• Frozen tater tots (24): These create the crispy, golden “cones” and hold all that gooey filling—no special dough making required!
• Cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Adds sharp, classic cheeseburger flavor that melts perfectly.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For that iconic cheesy stretch and extra creaminess.
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled (6 slices): A must for smoky, savory crunch and extra indulgence.
• Garlic powder (½ tsp): Just a little brings out the flavors in the beef filling.
• Onion powder (½ tsp): Gives depth and a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the meats and cheese.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning the beef to perfection—taste as you go!
• Ketchup (¼ cup): Lends sweet tang and moisture in true cheeseburger style.
• Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Creamy richness smooths out the filling with a subtle zing.
• Yellow mustard (2 tbsp): Essential for that classic burger bite and pop of acidity.
• Optional: pickles or scallions for garnish: These finish things off with brightness and crunch—totally customizable.

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones

Step 1: Bake the Tater Tots

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen tater tots on a baking sheet and bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they’re crisp and golden-brown. This first bake is what gives your cones that crave-worthy crunch. Don’t rush this step—the crispier, the better!

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

While the tots are getting crispy, set a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until fully browned, then drain off any extra grease so your filling isn’t soggy. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well. Finish by mixing in the ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard, creating a saucy, deeply flavorful burger mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Tater Tot Cones

Let the baked tater tots cool just enough to handle. Take a piece of foil and shape it into a cone mold for each serving—you’ll need one per cone. Arrange the warm tots around each cone, pressing gently so they stick together but don’t crumble. It’s a bit like building with edible Legos! Place your tot-wrapped molds back on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Set the Cone Shape

Slide the tater tot cones—still on their molds—back into the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. This second bake helps the tots hold their cone shape and develops even more crunch. Once they’re set, gently remove the foil and let the cones cool for a minute or two so they stay crisp when filled.

Step 5: Fill and Top

Now comes the fun part! Spoon your warm, seasoned cheeseburger mixture into each cone, packing it in for maximum flavor in every bite. Top generously with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and bacon crumbles. Don’t be shy—the cheese will melt beautifully, creating a bubbly, irresistible finish.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return your stuffed tots to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Watch closely for that magical moment when the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. Remove from the oven and let them sit for a minute to firm up.

Step 7: Add Garnishes and Serve

For that little something extra, scatter sliced pickles or scallions over the top. Serve these Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones piping hot while the cheese is still gooey for the ultimate experience!

How to Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones

Garnishes

The finishing touch can make these cones even more delightful. Classic dill pickles add a tangy crunch that cuts through the rich flavors, while fresh scallions offer a pop of color and garden-fresh lift. For extra flair, try a drizzle of burger sauce or sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Side Dishes

Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones don’t need much on the side, but they do pair perfectly with crisp coleslaw, tangy pickled veggies, or a simple green salad. If you want to go all-in, serve with extra tots, sweet potato fries, or a handful of crunchy chips to keep things fun and finger-food friendly.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, stand the cones upright in a mug, mason jar, or even a cupcake stand. For parties, arrange them bouquet-style on a platter, or let everyone build and garnish their own for a hands-on appetizer experience. This makes Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones the star of any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, and the flavors actually meld and intensify as they rest.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cones cool completely, then wrap each one tightly with foil or plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. When you’re ready, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crispy again—about 10 to 12 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but the cones won’t be as crisp.

Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones FAQs

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute all work wonderfully. Just keep the same seasoning to maintain that classic flavor profile.

How do I make the cones without foil molds?

If you don’t have cone molds, you can shape small bowls instead or use a silicone baking cone. All you need is a form for the tots to hug while baking—get creative with what’s in your kitchen!

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes, you can prep the cones and filling a day in advance. Store them separately, then stuff and bake just before serving so everything stays crispy and melty.

What’s the best cheese for the topping?

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives you the best of both worlds—cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for melt. Feel free to experiment with pepper jack, provolone, or even smoked gouda for a unique twist.

Are Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones kid-friendly?

Kids love the playful cone shape and the familiar burger flavors, but you can make them even more kid-friendly by going easy on the seasonings and letting youngsters help with the filling and toppings.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about these Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones—they’re bite-sized, loaded with craveable flavors, and utterly fun to eat. Whether you’re hosting a big game day, planning a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, I hope you give this recipe a try and see how quickly they disappear from the table!