If you have ever craved that irresistible combination of crispy, melty, and savory all in one dish, this Tater Tot Poutine Recipe is going to be your new obsession. A genius twist on the classic Canadian comfort food, it swaps traditional fries for crispy golden tater tots stacked high with creamy, shredded smoked mozzarella cheese and smothered in a luscious vegan gravy that is everything you want in a rich sauce. Every bite bursts with texture and flavor, making it perfect for game days, cozy nights, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Tater Tot Poutine Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish bursting with taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crunch of the tots to the silky smoothness of the cheese sauce, and the deeply savory vegan gravy that ties it all together.
- Tater tots: The crispy, golden base that delivers satisfying crunch and childhood nostalgia in every bite.
- Shredded smoked mozzarella cheese (vegan): Adds a rich smokiness and melty creaminess that mimics traditional cheese poutine perfectly.
- Unsweetened nut milk: A creamy liquid essential for melting the cheese and making the gravy smooth — cashew milk is preferred for its neutral flavor.
- Vegan butter: Creates a silky roux foundation in the gravy, giving it richness and depth.
- Flour: Thickens the gravy to that satisfyingly gooey consistency poutine is known for.
- Thyme: Adds subtle herbaceous notes that elevate the gravy’s flavor without overpowering.
- Liquid aminos or light tamari: Brings umami and a touch of salty complexity to the gravy.
- Vegan Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savoriness, enhancing the overall taste profile perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: To season to your exact liking and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Tater Tot Poutine Recipe
Step 1: Get Those Tater Tots Crispy
Start by baking the tater tots according to the package instructions until they are golden brown and crispy. This crunch is crucial as it forms the perfect sturdy base for all the delicious layers to come. Make sure they’re hot and fresh from the oven for that irresistible texture contrast against the creamy toppings.
Step 2: Melt the Cheese Sauce
While the tots are baking, gently melt the shredded smoked mozzarella cheese with the unsweetened nut milk over medium-low heat. Keep whisking constantly so the cheese melts evenly without burning, creating a silky, smoky sauce that will envelop the crispy tots. Once melted, cover to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
Step 3: Whip Up the Vegan Gravy
In a separate saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking until the mixture turns light golden brown, creating a nutty base. Then add thyme, liquid aminos or tamari, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the remaining nut milk until the gravy thickens to a luscious, velvety consistency. Reduce the heat to low and keep it warm and ready to pour.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tater Tot Poutine
Grab a large bowl or serving plate and start layering. Add a generous layer of crispy tater tots, ladle on melted cheese sauce, then drizzle the savory gravy over everything. Repeat until most tots are covered in cheesy, saucy goodness. Give the whole dish a final sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
This is the moment to dive in! Serve your Tater Tot Poutine piping hot so every bite bursts with melty cheese, crispy bites, and that unbeatable gravy flavor combination.
How to Serve Tater Tot Poutine Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra layer of color and flavor, consider sprinkling freshly chopped green onions or parsley on top just before serving. A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also bring a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy and crispy textures.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides like a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance its richness. If you want to stay indulgent, consider serving with baked beans or roasted mushrooms for an even more comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Tater Tot Poutine Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or mini casserole dishes. This makes for easy sharing at parties or an impressive presentation when serving guests. You can also layer it in glass dishes for a visual feast of golden tots, melty cheese, and glossy gravy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The tots will lose some crispiness but the dish will still taste delicious and comforting when reheated.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for crispiness. If you freeze leftovers, store the poutine in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To revive your Tater Tot Poutine, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through to help restore some crunch to the tots. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the cheese texture smooth and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheese instead of vegan cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with regular mozzarella or cheese curds if you prefer a traditional poutine experience. The flavors might shift slightly but the dish will remain delicious.
What if I don’t have liquid aminos or tamari?
You can substitute soy sauce for liquid aminos or tamari, though use less as soy sauce can be saltier. Adjust salt accordingly when seasoning.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy, and double-check your vegan Worcestershire and tamari sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free.
How spicy is this Tater Tot Poutine Recipe?
This recipe itself isn’t spicy but adding hot sauce as a garnish can easily give it a kick. It’s perfect for anyone who loves mild, smoky, savory flavors or those wanting to spice it up.
What are some good drink pairings with this dish?
Classic pairings include a cold beer or a fizzy soda that can cut through the richness. For non-alcoholic options, lemonade or iced tea also complement the flavors nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Poutine Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent comfort food with a clever vegan twist. It’s so easy to make yet packed with incredible flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds every time. Give it a try, share it with friends, and enjoy a warm hug of a meal that satisfies every craving.
Print
Tater Tot Poutine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Canadian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vegan twist on the classic Canadian comfort food, Tater Tot Poutine features crispy baked tater tots layered with creamy smoked mozzarella-style cheese sauce and a rich, savory vegan gravy made from plant-based ingredients. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a hearty snack or casual meal, combining crispy textures and luscious flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Tater Tot Poutine
- 1 package tater tots
- 1/2 package shredded smoked mozzarella cheese (vegan)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened nut milk (for the cheese)
For the Gravy
- 5 tablespoons vegan butter
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/2 cups unsweetened nut milk (cashew recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons liquid aminos or light tamari
- 2 teaspoons vegan Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Tater Tots: Bake the tater tots according to the package directions until they are golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the shredded vegan smoked mozzarella cheese and 1/3 cup unsweetened nut milk. Whisk constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly without burning. Once melted, cover and keep the sauce warm.
- Prepare Vegan Gravy: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Whisk in the flour and cook until the mixture turns a light golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Add the thyme, liquid aminos (or light tamari), vegan Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in 2 1/2 cups of unsweetened nut milk, continuing to whisk until the gravy thickens. Reduce the heat to low to keep warm.
- Assemble Poutine: On a large serving plate or bowl, create layers starting with baked tater tots, followed by a generous drizzle of the vegan cheese sauce, and then the warm vegan gravy. Repeat the layering so most of the tater tots are covered with sauce and gravy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Serve the Tater Tot Poutine hot and enjoy this comforting, dairy-free, plant-based take on a classic favorite.
Notes
- Ensure the tater tots are fully crispy before layering for best texture.
- You can substitute the smoked mozzarella vegan cheese with your preferred vegan cheese, but a smoked variety adds depth of flavor.
- If you want a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer or add a slurry of flour and water.
- For an extra savory kick, sprinkle some nutritional yeast into the cheese sauce.
- Store leftovers separately and reheat gently to maintain the texture.
