Ranch Turkey Bacon Tater

This crave-worthy Ranch Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Kegs recipe transforms ordinary frozen tater tots into an extraordinary comfort food experience. The crispy exterior gives way to a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, and melted cheese all tied together with creamy ranch flavor.

I created these stuffed tater kegs for my nephew's birthday party last year, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now they're requested at every family gathering we have.

Ingredients

• 8 large frozen tater kegs or jumbo tater tots. Look for the extra-large variety for easier stuffing
• 1/2 lb ground beef. Choose 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for best flavor without excess grease
• 4 slices turkey bacon cooked and crumbled. A lighter alternative to regular bacon while still providing smoky flavor
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing. Use good quality for the best tangy flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds depth without overpowering
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Provides savory notes throughout the meat mixture
• Salt and pepper to taste. Season carefully as the tater kegs already contain some salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions. Adds fresh color and mild onion flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bake the Tater Kegs

Preheat your oven according to the package directions typically around 425°F. Arrange the frozen tater kegs on a baking sheet with a bit of space between each one. Bake until the exterior is deeply golden and crispy usually 20-25 minutes. You want them thoroughly cooked but not overly browned as they'll go back in the oven later. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes so you can handle them without burning yourself.

Prepare the Filling

While the tater kegs are baking heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until no pink remains about 5-7 minutes. Carefully drain excess fat from the pan. Return to heat and sprinkle in the garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper stirring to distribute evenly. Pour in the ranch dressing and stir until the meat is coated and the dressing is incorporated. Fold in the crumbled turkey bacon ensuring it's distributed throughout. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Create Pockets in Tater Kegs

Once the tater kegs have cooled enough to handle hold each one with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to protect your fingers. Using a small spoon melon baller or even the handle end of a spoon carefully hollow out the center of each tater keg creating a pocket for the filling. Work gently to avoid breaking through the bottom or sides. Place the hollowed kegs back on the baking sheet.

Fill and Top the Kegs

Spoon the beef and bacon mixture into each hollowed tater keg using a small spoon. Press the filling down gently with the back of the spoon to pack it in without breaking the potato shell. Distribute the filling evenly among all the kegs. Top each stuffed keg with a generous pinch of shredded cheddar cheese allowing it to mound slightly on top.

Final Bake

Return the stuffed and cheese-topped tater kegs to the oven for 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully as you want the cheese to melt completely and become bubbly without burning. The tater kegs should be heated through and the exterior should maintain its crispness.

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The turkey bacon is my secret weapon in this recipe. While traditional bacon would certainly work I love how the turkey version adds that smoky flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients. My husband who normally insists on "real bacon" can't tell the difference in these loaded tater kegs.

Make-Ahead Options

These stuffed tater kegs can be partially prepared ahead of time to make entertaining easier. Bake and hollow out the tater kegs then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours. The meat filling can also be prepared a day ahead and stored separately. When ready to serve simply stuff the kegs top with cheese and complete the final bake adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time since the ingredients will be cold.

Customization Ideas

Think of this recipe as a starting template for endless variations. Try Italian-style with ground Italian sausage mozzarella and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. For a breakfast version use crumbled breakfast sausage scrambled eggs and cheddar topped with a drizzle of maple syrup. Vegetarian guests will appreciate a version stuffed with sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and onions bound together with a bit of cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

While these stuffed tater kegs are hearty enough to serve as a main course they really shine as part of a spread. Set up a dipping bar with extra ranch dressing barbecue sauce sriracha mayo and buffalo sauce. For a complete meal serve alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness. They're perfect for casual entertaining and absolutely ideal for game day parties.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I hollow out tater kegs without breaking them?

Let the tater kegs cool slightly after baking so they’re firm to touch. Use a small knife or spoon to carefully scoop out the centers, leaving a sturdy edge to hold the filling.

→ Can I use regular tater tots instead of jumbo kegs?

Yes, you can use regular tater tots, but they might be trickier to hollow out. Look for the largest ones and be gentle to avoid breaking them.

→ What ranch dressing works best for this recipe?

Use your favorite creamy ranch dressing, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. A thicker consistency works well for mixing with the filling.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and hollow out the tater kegs in advance. Assemble them just before baking for the second time to ensure they stay crispy.

→ What other fillings could I use?

Get creative with your fillings! Pulled pork, shredded chicken, or spiced black beans make great alternatives. Add your favorite spices or sauces to customize the flavor.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms, and replace the turkey bacon with vegetarian bacon or omit entirely.