Loaded Brava’s Tots

This loaded Brava’s tots recipe turns simple frozen tater tots into a crispy, vibrant appetizer or snack that elevates casual gatherings or weeknight bites. The combination of smoky, spicy bravas sauce with melty manchego and savory bacon keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made this on a whim for a game night and it quickly became the most requested snack

Ingredients

• Frozen tater tots: provide a crispy base when baked just right choose a good brand with consistent size for even cooking
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps develop the sauce’s flavor choose extra virgin for quality
• Onion and garlic: build a savory foundation for the sauce use fresh and finely chopped for even melting
• Smoked paprika: both sweet and hot brings depth and that iconic smoky punch search for vibrant color and aroma
• Tomato puree: lends body and richness look for a smooth flavorful puree without added spices
• Roasted red peppers: introduce subtle sweetness and texture pick ones packed in water or oil for freshness
• Sugar: balances acidity in the sauce use a fine granulated variety for quick dissolving
• Sherry vinegar: provides a nuanced tartness enhancing the bravas sauce select a quality aged vinegar
• Manchego cheese: brings a nutty creamy layer melt evenly over the tots select a young variety for softness
• Bacon: adds smoky crunch but is optional for vegetarians try turkey bacon or omit as desired
• Sour cream or garlic aioli: cools and contrasts the spicy sauce use quality store-bought or homemade aioli
• Fresh parsley or chives: add a bright herbal finish pick fresh vibrant bunches without blemishes

Instructions

Prepare The Tater Tot Cups:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit carefully grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking

Place two frozen tater tots in each muffin cup:

making sure they rest evenly so the cups form well

Bake for 10 minutes:

to slightly soften the tots this allows shaping without breaking the crispy edges

Shape And Crisp The Cups:

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and press the softened tots gently into a cup shape using a spoon or small glass press firmly but avoid smashing completely

Return the tin to the oven:

Bake for another 15 minutes or until the tots are golden brown and crispy this step is essential for a sturdy cup that holds the toppings

Make The Bravas Sauce:

Heat olive oil over medium heat then add finely chopped onion and garlic sauté gently until soft and translucent about 5 minutes without browning to keep sweetness

Add smoked paprika both sweet and hot along with cayenne if using:

Stir for a minute to release fragrant oils

Pour in tomato puree and stir in chopped roasted red peppers sugar and sherry vinegar:

Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes stirring occasionally to thicken and develop flavors

Season with salt and pepper:

To your taste

Assemble The Loaded Tots:

Spoon a generous amount of the warm bravas sauce into each tater tot cup top with shredded manchego cheese sprinkle crumbled bacon if using

Place back in the oven for 5 minutes or until cheese melts and turns bubbly:

Finish with a dollop of sour cream or garlic aioli sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives and dust lightly with smoked paprika for zing

This dish always brings back memories of lively weekends cooking with friends and sharing plates around the table

Storage Tips

Store cooled loaded tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness avoid microwaving or they become soggy

Ingredient Swaps

Sharp cheddar cheese works wonderfully if manchego is unavailable it melts well and adds a tangy bite For a vegetarian version increase roasted red peppers and replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu Try using regular paprika if you cannot find smoked but add a dash of liquid smoke for an extra layer of flavor

Serving Ideas

Pair these tots with a crisp green salad or a chilled Spanish white wine to balance the richness Add a sprinkle of lemon zest over the sour cream for a refreshing twist Use them as a fun finger food appetizer for game nights birthday parties or casual dinners

This loaded tots recipe is a perfect balance of smoky spice and creamy richness that will keep your guests coming back for more.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I make the tater tot cups crispy?

Bake the frozen tots twice: first to soften, then after shaping them in the muffin tin to achieve a golden, crispy texture.

→ Can I make the bravas sauce spicier?

Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level or add extra smoked paprika for more smoky spice.

→ What cheese works best as a topping?

Manchego provides a rich, nutty flavor, but cheddar can be a satisfying substitute with a sharper taste.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for the toppings?

Omit bacon and enhance with extra cheese, sour cream, garlic aioli, and fresh herbs for full flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.