Cooking method

Let’s get down to business with these step-by-step instructions to bring your Smoked Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Bombs to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce each one with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes in the oven for about 45 minutes or until they are cooked through.
4. Allow them to cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise.
5. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch inside the potato skins.
6. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain off any excess fat.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and green onions.
8. Stuff each potato skin generously with the beef mixture and place them on a baking sheet.
9. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard.
11. Serve the stuffed tater bombs with the sauce on the side for dipping.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving these irresistible tater bombs, the presentation is key! Place them on a large platter and drizzle a little extra melted cheese on top for that gourmet touch. Pair with a simple green salad or some crunchy coleslaw to balance out the meal. You might also consider offering a selection of dipping sauces—think BBQ sauce or spicy ranch dressing—to elevate the experience.

How to store & freeze

If you find yourself with any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover tater bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Pro chef tips

• Beef Options: Try swapping out the ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Crispiness: For extra crispy potato skins, place them under the broiler for the last few minutes of baking.
• Flavor Boosters: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to the meat mixture, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Creative twists

There are plenty of ways you can shake up this recipe to suit your taste:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese types, like pepper jack or gouda.
• Spicy Kick: Top with diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and black beans for a hearty vegetarian entrée.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these tater bombs?

The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour, with about 45 minutes dedicated to baking the potatoes and the rest for assembly and additional cooking time.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and scoop out the potatoes beforehand. Assemble them and place them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have russet potatoes?

While russets are ideal for their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.