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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. The rack helps the bacon crisp up evenly.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Cut each slice of bacon into thirds. This size is perfect for wrapping one tater tot securely. If you’re using thick-cut bacon, consider pre-cooking it for 3–4 minutes to ensure it gets crispy when baked.
#### Step 3: Wrap the Tater Tots
Take one piece of bacon and wrap it around a tater tot. Secure the bacon with a toothpick or place it seam-side down on the wire rack. Repeat with the remaining tots and bacon pieces.
#### Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional)
For a sweet and savory twist, sprinkle brown sugar over the wrapped tots before baking. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
#### Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the tater tots are golden. For extra crispiness, broil the tots for an additional 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
#### Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the tots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or hot sauce. For a garnish, sprinkle chopped green onions or shredded cheese on top.
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### Variations to Try:
1. **Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Tots**:
After baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tots and return them to the oven for a minute or two until the cheese melts.
2. **Sweet and Spicy Tots**:
Before baking, coat the bacon with a mixture of brown sugar and cayenne pepper for a sweet, caramelized crust with a spicy kick.
3. **BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Tots**:
Brush the bacon with your favorite BBQ sauce halfway through baking for a smoky, tangy glaze.
4. **Loaded Tots**:
After baking, drizzle the tots with sour cream, sprinkle with green onions, and add a handful of crumbled cooked bacon or cheese for a “loaded potato” flavor.
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### Tips for Success:
– **Use Thin-Cut Bacon**: Thin bacon wraps more easily around the tater tots and crisps up faster.
– **Pre-Cook Thick Bacon**: If you prefer thick-cut bacon, partially cook it before wrapping the tots to ensure it gets crispy without overcooking the tots.
– **Keep It Neat**: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon if it doesn’t stay wrapped on its own.
– **Serve Immediately**: These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the bacon is crispy and the tots are hot.
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### Perfect Pairings
Bacon-wrapped tots are versatile and pair well with a variety of dips and accompaniments:
– **Classic Dips**: Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ketchup.
– **Spicy Options**: Sriracha mayo, hot sauce, or jalapeño cheese dip.
– **Sweet Additions**: Maple syrup or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast.
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### Conclusion
Bacon-wrapped tots are the ultimate snack, combining two comfort food favorites into one irresistible bite. With their crispy exterior, savory flavor, and customizable toppings, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a party, tailgate, or just enjoying a cozy night in, these easy-to-make treats will leave everyone asking for more. Give this recipe a try, and watch them disappear in no time!
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