Buffalo Wild Wings-inspired tater tots are a delicious twist on the classic appetizer.
These crispy potato bites are coated in spicy buffalo sauce and topped with tangy blue cheese.
You’ll really love how easy these are to customize – try adding shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
The key is getting the tots extra crispy in the oven before tossing them in the sauce.
For the best texture, let the coated tots bake for a few more minutes to crisp up again.
Serving these hot from the oven with extra buffalo sauce and blue cheese dressing on the side is a must!
How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Tater Tots Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 bag Frozen Tater Tots (32 oz.)
• 2 cups Chicken (cooked and shredded)
• 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce
• 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles
• 2 tbsp Green Onions (chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2:
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 3:
Bake the tater tots for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 4:
While the tots are baking, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce in a bowl.
Step 5:
Once the tots are done, top them with the buffalo chicken mixture.
Step 6:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles over the chicken.
Step 7:
Return the baking sheet to the oven for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Step 8:
Drizzle ranch dressing over the top and garnish with chopped green onions.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Crispy Tots Are Key
For extra crispy tater tots, flip them halfway through the initial baking time.
Customize Your Sauce
I love experimenting with different buffalo sauce brands or making my own for a unique flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the buffalo chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Vegetarian Version
Try substituting the chicken with roasted cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still packs a flavor punch.
Spice It Up
If you’re a heat lover like me, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch!
What to Serve with Buffalo Wild Wings Tater Tots
Classic Celery and Carrot Sticks
You can’t go wrong with the traditional celery and carrot sticks as a side for your Buffalo Wild Wings tater tots.
These crisp veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy, savory tots and help cool down your palate.
Don’t forget to serve them with a side of creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping!
Crispy Onion Rings
For a delicious twist, try serving your Buffalo Wild Wings tater tots with some crispy, golden onion rings.
The combination of crunchy textures and complementary flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
I love to dip both the tots and onion rings in a tangy barbecue sauce for an extra flavor kick!
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Surprise your guests by pairing your spicy tater tots with some sweet grilled corn on the cob.
The natural sweetness of the corn balances out the heat from the Buffalo sauce beautifully.
Brush the corn with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious side dish.
Cucumber Salad
For a lighter option, consider serving a refreshing cucumber salad alongside your Buffalo Wild Wings tater tots.
Thinly slice cucumbers and toss them with a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and dill for a crisp and tangy side.
This cool and crunchy salad offers a nice contrast to the warm, spicy tots and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try using sweet potato tots instead of regular tater tots for a healthier twist!
You can swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce or honey mustard if you’re not a fan of spicy flavors.
Protein Options
Don’t have chicken on hand? Use shredded pork or even crumbled bacon as your protein topping.
Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or plant-based chicken alternatives.
Cheese Choices
Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack adds an extra kick, while mozzarella gives a great melty texture.
For a dairy-free version, use your favorite vegan cheese substitute or simply omit the cheese altogether.
Add some extra veggies like diced bell peppers or sliced jalapenos for more crunch and flavor.
You can make this dish in the air fryer for extra crispy tots – just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How to Store Leftover Buffalo Wild Wings Tater Tots
Refrigeration
Allow your leftover Buffalo Wild Wings tater tots to cool completely at room temperature.
Transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
Place the container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for best quality and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze your leftover tater tots for up to 2 months.
Arrange the cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air before sealing.
Packaging Tips
To prevent moisture buildup, line your storage container with a paper towel before adding the tater tots.
If stacking layers, place parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
Label your container with the date of storage to keep track of freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Tater Tots
You don’t want to end up with dry, burnt tots that crumble apart when you bite into them!
Keep a close eye on your tots as they bake, and pull them out as soon as they’re golden brown and crispy.
Skimping on the Buffalo Sauce
Don’t be shy with that tangy, spicy goodness – it’s what makes these tots special!
I always make sure to toss the chicken thoroughly in the sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
Forgetting the Blue Cheese
Trust me, the creamy, funky blue cheese is essential for balancing out the heat of the buffalo sauce.
You’ll regret it if you leave it out, so make sure to sprinkle a generous amount over your finished tots!
Buffalo Wild Wings Tater Tots Recipe
- 1 bag Frozen Tater Tots 32 oz.
- 2 cups Chicken cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce
- 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles
- 2 tbsp Green Onions chopped
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake the tater tots for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- While the tots are baking, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce in a bowl.
- Once the tots are done, top them with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles over the chicken.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the top and garnish with chopped green onions.
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