_Sips coffee_ Let me tell you about my absolute favorite midnight snack that has my family fighting over the last bite – my legendary Loaded Pizza Tots! Trust me, this isn’t your average tater tot recipe. This is what happens when late-night cravings meet pure genius.
Picture this: crispy, golden tater tots smothered in melty mozzarella and pepperoni, drizzled with garlic butter, and topped with fresh basil. It’s like pizza and tots had a beautiful baby, and honey, it’s perfect for those nights when you’re binge-watching your favorite show.
What you’ll need (because I know you’re already running to your kitchen):
– 1 bag frozen tater tots
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella
– 1 cup mini pepperoni
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves minced garlic
– Fresh basil
– Italian seasoning
– Ranch dressing (because, duh!)
Now, let’s make some magic happen!
First, bake those tots according to the package instructions, but here’s my little secret – add an extra 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. Nobody likes soggy tots, am I right?
While those are getting golden, melt your butter and add the minced garlic. Let it get all fragrant and delicious (try not to drink it straight, though it’s tempting 😉).
(Speaking of delicious recipes, don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for daily recipe inspiration that’ll make your taste buds dance!)
Once your tots are crispy, drizzle half the garlic butter over them, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, then add your mozzarella and pepperoni. Pop it back in the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese is all melty and bubbly.
Finally, drizzle the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle fresh basil, and serve with ranch dressing. Watch as your family magically appears in the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible aroma!
Y’all, I can’t even tell you how many times this has saved me from those late-night hunger pangs. My teenager actually hugged me the first time I made these – and if you have teenagers, you know that’s basically a miracle!
Pro tip: Make extra because these disappear FAST. Like, blink-and-they’re-gone fast. My husband once tried to hide some for himself in the vegetable drawer (amateur move, I always check there first! 😂).
If you loved this recipe as much as my family does, pretty please follow me on Newsbreak for more mouthwatering recipes that’ll make you the hero of your kitchen! Drop a comment below and let me know if you tried these – did your family fight over the last tot too? And what other midnight snacks would you love to see? Let’s chat in the comments!
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go make another batch. These tots won’t eat themselves! 💁♀️✨