Cheesy tater tots cooked in a campfire pie iron are a delicious, crispy, and gooey snack perfect for camping or backyard fires. This method locks in the cheese and creates a golden crust that’s hard to resist, making it a fun twist on traditional tater tots.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen tater tots (thawed slightly)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray or oil for the pie iron
Instructions
- Preheat your campfire or charcoal grill to medium heat. You want hot coals but no open flames to avoid burning the pie iron.
- Lightly grease both sides of your campfire pie iron with non-stick spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the slightly thawed tater tots with melted butter, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Open the pie iron and layer half of the tater tots evenly on one side, pressing them down slightly to form a compact base.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Add green onions and bacon if using for extra flavor.
- Top with the remaining tater tots, pressing gently to seal the cheese inside.
- Close the pie iron securely. Hold it shut with the latch or clamp if your iron has one.
- Place the pie iron on the hot coals or grill grate. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the iron halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides.
- Carefully remove the pie iron from the heat (use heat-resistant gloves or tongs). Let cool for 1-2 minutes before opening to avoid burning yourself with hot steam or cheese.
- Open the pie iron and slide the cheesy tater tot sandwich onto a plate. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Tips
- Thaw your tater tots slightly: This helps them cook evenly inside the pie iron without burning the outside.
- Use sharp cheddar or a cheese that melts well: Cheddar gives a nice flavor and melts smoothly, but mozzarella or pepper jack also work well.
- Don’t overfill the pie iron: Overstuffing can cause uneven cooking and make it difficult to seal the edges.
- Preheat the pie iron on the fire: Warming the iron briefly before adding ingredients helps prevent sticking and promotes crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy tater tots from a campfire pie iron are perfect as a hearty snack or side dish. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo. They also pair well with grilled meats, burgers, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal during outdoor gatherings.
Variations
Customize your cheesy tater tots by adding different fillings or toppings inside the pie iron. Try mixing in cooked jalapeños for a spicy kick, swapping cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese, or layering in sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a savory twist. For a vegetarian option, add chopped bell peppers, corn, or spinach. You can also experiment with different meats like cooked sausage or ham.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cheesy tater tots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tots soggy and the cheese rubbery. For camping trips, consider making fresh batches to enjoy them at their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
While fresh potatoes can be used, they require more prep such as parboiling and shredding or cutting into small pieces. Frozen tater tots are convenient because they’re pre-cooked and portioned, ensuring consistent texture and cooking times in the pie iron.
How do I prevent the cheesy tots from sticking to the pie iron?
Make sure to thoroughly grease the pie iron with oil or non-stick spray before cooking. Also, preheating the iron slightly helps create a non-stick surface. Avoid opening the iron too early during cooking as it can cause sticking.
Can I prepare these in advance and cook later?
You can assemble the cheesy tater tot sandwiches ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for a few hours, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Cook them fresh over the fire for the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing assembled pies as the cheese and tots may separate or become watery.
What is the best heat source for cooking in a campfire pie iron?
Medium-hot charcoal or campfire coals are ideal because they provide steady, even heat without large flames that can burn the food. Avoid open flames and very high heat to prevent burning the outside before the inside is cooked.
How long should I cook the cheesy tater tots in the pie iron?
Cooking time typically ranges from 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown both sides evenly. The exact time depends on the heat of your coals or grill. Look for a golden brown crust and melted cheese inside as signs it’s done.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, omit bacon or any meat add-ins for a vegetarian version. For vegan, use a plant-based cheese alternative and vegan butter or oil. Keep in mind that melting characteristics may vary with vegan cheeses, so choose one designed to melt well.
Cheesy tater tots made with a campfire pie iron are a satisfying, crowd-pleasing treat that combines crispy potato goodness with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for camping or backyard cooking, this versatile recipe invites endless variations and easy customization. With a little prep and attention to heat, you’ll have a delicious snack that’s both fun to make and irresistible to eat.
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