Crispy Golden Tater Tots

These crispy golden tater tots are a delightful homemade snack or side that brings together simple kitchen staples into a crunchy, flavorful treat. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter way to enjoy a classic comfort food without sacrificing texture. The method of soaking, microwaving, and careful shaping ensures each tot is perfectly tender inside and crisp outside with just a few ingredients.

I made these on a weekend when the kids came home hungry from sports practice. They devoured the whole batch and have been asking for them weekly ever since. It really proves that homemade really can be better when everyone approves.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: Chosen for their ideal starchy texture that crisps up beautifully
• Cornstarch: Keeps extra moisture at bay allowing for a crunchy finish in the oven
• Light flavored oil: Such as avocado or vegetable oil for neutral taste and good roasting
• Fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning to bring out the potato flavor
• Onion powder: Adds subtle depth without overpowering
• Fresh ground black pepper: Brightens the taste with gentle heat
• Finely grated cheddar cheese (optional): Adds melty richness and boosts flavor
• Fresh parsley, minced (optional): For a fresh herb note and a pop of color

Instructions

Prep the Oven and Tools:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 204 degrees Celsius. If you have convection, use it for extra crispness. Line a baking sheet with foil parchment paper or a silicone mat. Drizzle one tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking. Have a large bowl of cold water ready.

Soak the Potatoes:

Peel russet potatoes and cut them into roughly one inch chunks. Put them into cold water and swish gently for about 15 seconds. This rinses away excess starch that could make the tots gummy. Drain after one minute.

Chop Potatoes into Small Bits:

Place potato chunks into a food processor and pulse until broken into small pieces but not pureed. Remove any larger chunks and chop by hand. Transfer chopped potatoes onto a clean kitchen towel.

Remove Excess Moisture:

Wrap towel around the potatoes and squeeze firmly to press out as much water as possible. This step is critical for crispy tots and avoiding sogginess. Discard the liquid.

Partially Cook the Potatoes:

Microwave the soggy potato bits for one minute then stir. Microwave another 30 seconds. This softens them just enough without making the texture mushy. Let the mixture cool for several minutes.

Season the Potato Mix:

Add salt onion powder cornstarch black pepper shredded cheddar cheese and parsley if you like. Gently fold everything together. The mix will feel sticky so use a rubber spatula or fork to combine well without mashing.

Shape the Tater Tots:

Keep a small bowl of cold water nearby so you can wet your fingers and prevent sticking. Form the mixture into small cylinders about three quarters of an inch wide and one inch long. Place on the oiled baking sheet with space between each tot.

Bake Until Golden:

Drizzle remaining oil over the tops of tots then bake for about 12 minutes until bottoms are golden. Carefully flip each tot using two forks and bake another 12 to 15 minutes until the other side is golden and crisp.

I always look forward to adding cheddar cheese and fresh parsley because it transforms the simple tots into something extra special. One family night the kids insisted we finish the entire batch before dinner. It reminds me how simple ingredients and care can really win hearts around the table.

Storage Tips

Once cooled leftover tater tots keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a preheated oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness. For longer storage freeze after slight underbaking. Reheat straight from the freezer to keep texture perfect.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have a food processor grate the potatoes using a box grater and follow the rest of the steps as is. Cheddar cheese can be swapped for mozzarella or omitted altogether. Parsley can be replaced with chives or left out for a simpler flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve tater tots with classic ketchup or try garlic aioli creamy honey mustard or fry sauce for a fun twist. They are a great side for burgers sandwiches or even to top a crunchy salad.

Serve these tater tots hot for best texture. Theyre easy to customize and perfect for family nights.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why soak the potatoes in cold water?

Soaking removes excess starch from the potatoes, preventing a gummy texture and ensuring the tots have a fluffy center and crisp crust.

→ Can I make these without a microwave?

Yes, parboil the potatoes until tender, drain well, let cool, then chop and mix as directed for similar results.

→ What does cornstarch do in the mix?

Cornstarch absorbs moisture and helps hold the tots together, contributing to a crisp and stable crust during baking.

→ How to prevent the tots from sticking when shaping?

Keep a bowl of cold water nearby and wet your fingers before shaping each tot; this prevents sticking and helps form even shapes.

→ Can these be frozen and reheated?

Yes, freeze the shaped tots after slight underbaking. Reheat in the oven until golden and crisp to maintain texture.

→ Is adding cheese an option?

Absolutely, mixing shredded cheddar cheese into the potato mix adds richness and extra moisture for a flavorful twist.