Tater Tot Poutine

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Tater Tot Poutine is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining crispy tater tots with the rich, savory goodness of gravy, cheese curds, and crispy bacon bits. This recipe is perfect for a game day snack, a cozy family dinner, or a fun weekend treat. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for comfort food that’s both delicious and fun, look no further than Tater Tot Poutine. The crispy tater tots serve as a base for gooey cheese curds and savory gravy, all topped off with perfectly crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of green onions for freshness. It’s a blend of textures and flavors that makes each bite an indulgent experience. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it also comes together quickly and easily, making it an excellent option for a casual gathering or a late-night snack.

Ingredients

To create the ultimate Tater Tot Poutine, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 2 cups cheese curds (fresh white cheddar is ideal)
• 1 cup chicken gravy (make sure to use a -certified product)
• 1 cup crispy bacon bits (use turkey bacon or beef bacon)
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Tater Tot Poutine

Step 1: Prepare the Tater Tots

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the bag of tater tots. Spread the frozen tater tots out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake them until they’re golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 2: Heat the Gravy

While the tater tots are baking, pour the chicken gravy into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, allowing it to warm through. If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can let it simmer for a few extra minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Bacon

If you are using whole strips of turkey bacon or beef bacon, cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet, drain any excess fat, and chop them into small bits. If you have pre-made bacon bits, simply set them aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Poutine

Once the tater tots are perfectly golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. On a serving platter, pile the tater tots high. Generously pour the hot chicken gravy over the tater tots, ensuring they are well covered. Quickly scatter the cheese curds on top of the gravy, allowing the heat to slightly melt them. Finish with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits and sliced green onions for garnish.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve your Tater Tot Poutine immediately while it’s hot and gooey. It’s best enjoyed fresh, right out of the oven, with all the flavors coming together in each bite. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For extra crispy tater tots, consider using a convection oven setting if available.
• Feel free to customize the gravy by adding herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
• If you can’t find cheese curds, shredded cheese can be a substitute, but the texture will change slightly.
• For a vegetarian version, simply swap the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Variations and Customizations

• For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce over the top.
• Experiment with different types of gravy; a mushroom gravy can add a delicious depth of flavor.
• Try adding different toppings like sautéed onions, diced bell peppers, or even chili for a unique twist.
• Substitute the bacon bits for cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier version.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, allow the Tater Tot Poutine to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. The microwave can be used in a pinch, but the oven will keep the tater tots crispy.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make Tater Tot Poutine gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free tater tots and check the gravy for gluten-containing ingredients.

What can I use instead of cheese curds?

If cheese curds are not available, you can substitute with shredded cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar, although the texture will differ from traditional poutine.

Can I prepare the components in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare tater tots and gravy ahead of time. Just reheat before assembling for a quick and easy meal.

What is the best way to enhance the flavor?

For an extra flavor boost, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to your tater tots before baking, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce in the gravy for depth.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Poutine is a fun and delicious take on a classic favorite that everyone will love. With crispy tater tots, gooey cheese curds, savory gravy, and crunchy bacon bits, it’s a comfort food dish that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen. Remember to get creative with toppings and variations to make it truly your own. Happy cooking!