How in the world do you make tots, the little potato-packed stars of Midwest comfort food, even better? You smother them in cheese and meat.

That’s what a growing number of restaurateurs are doing, and the variety of flavors can be as unique as they are.

Loaded tots are in the Proliferation stage — they skew toward chain and casual dining operators.

Menu inspiration

Tilted Kilt. multiple locations

Loaded Tots

Tots smothered in beer cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions, drizzled with sour cream.