Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Tater Tot Bake Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For extra crispy tater tots, spread them on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes after slow cooking. This adds a crunchy texture contrast.

If the sauce seems too thin, remove the lid and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce. Conversely, if too thick, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth.

Customize the vegetables: add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. For a protein boost, layer in cooked shredded chicken or ground beef.

Use different cheese blends like sharp cheddar and pepper jack for a kick. The recipe is forgiving; adjust seasonings to taste.

Variations

• Chicken Broccoli Bake: Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken along with the broccoli for a heartier meal. Use cream of chicken soup instead of broccoli for a different flavor.
• Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar: Substitute the Colby-Jack with pepper jack cheese and add 1/4 cup diced pickled jalapeños. This gives a spicy kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use cream of mushroom soup. Add an extra cup of broccoli or other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Use vegetarian bacon bits if desired.
• Loaded Potato Style: Replace broccoli with 1 cup of frozen corn and add 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper. Top with chopped green onions after cooking for a loaded potato feel.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Freezer

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The texture may soften upon reheating, but the flavor remains delicious.

Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate.

In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. Add 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Serving ideas

Serve this tater tot bake as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

It also works as a hearty side for grilled meats or as a party dip with tortilla chips. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color.

For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread. Leftovers can be scooped into tortillas for a fun twist. This dish is best enjoyed hot, fresh from the slow cooker.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Tater Tot Bake

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb frozen tater tots
• 1 cup crispy crumbled bacon
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of broccoli soup
• 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Place the frozen tater tots in an even layer in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the crispy crumbled bacon evenly over the tater tots.
2. Scatter the fresh broccoli florets over the tater tot and bacon mixture. Spoon the condensed cream of broccoli soup over the top, spreading it slightly to cover some of the ingredients.
3. Place the softened block of cream cheese in the center of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the shredded Colby-Jack cheese evenly over the entire mixture.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the tater tots are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Do not stir during cooking.
5. Once cooked, stir gently to combine the creamy sauce. Serve hot directly from the slow cooker or spoon onto plates.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

30 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.