Introduction

Crispy golden tater tots are a delightful homemade snack that’s crunchy on the outside and tender inside. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a few easy steps to create perfectly baked tots that rival any store-bought version. They’re great as a side dish or a fun appetizer for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of small, golden-brown tater tots with a crispy, uneven texture that reveals bits of potato and green herbs inside, arranged in a pile. Each tot is thick and rectangular with a crunch visible on the surface, and sprinkled with small sprigs of fresh green parsley. To the right side, there is a small white bowl filled with thick, shiny red ketchup that has a smooth, glossy surface, positioned on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ lb russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 tbsp cornstarch
¾ tsp fine sea salt
½ tsp onion powder
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
⅓ cup (28g) finely grated cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tbsp finely minced fresh parsley (optional)
2 tbsp light-flavored oil (avocado or vegetable), divided

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), using convection if available. Line a baking sheet with foil, a silicone mat, or parchment paper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil over the lined sheet.
Step 2: Peel and cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Submerge them in a large bowl of cold water, gently agitate for 15 seconds, then drain in a colander for 1 minute.
Step 3: Transfer the drained potatoes to a food processor and pulse until broken into small bits, taking care not to overprocess. Remove any large chunks and chop finely by hand.
Step 4: Wrap the potato bits in a clean dishcloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.
Step 5: Place the potato bits in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Stir again and let cool for 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6: Add salt, onion powder, cornstarch, parsley, cheddar cheese (if using), and freshly ground black pepper to the potatoes. Stir gently to combine the sticky mixture.
Step 7: With damp fingers, form the mixture into cylinders about ¾-inch wide and 1-inch long. Arrange the tots on the prepared baking sheet, keeping your hands slightly wet to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over the tots. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, until the bottoms turn golden brown.
Step 9: Carefully flip each tot using two forks, loosening any that stick. Bake for another 12 to 15 minutes until the second side is deep golden and crisp.

Tips & Variations

Keep your hands damp while shaping the tots to prevent sticking and help them hold their shape better.
For extra flavor, try mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder along with the seasonings.
Using a food processor makes the process quicker, but you can also grate the potatoes by hand if preferred.
Feel free to omit the cheese and parsley for a simpler version.

Storage

Store leftover tater tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep them crispy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of crispy golden-brown tater tots with a textured surface showing bits of green herbs scattered on and around them; the tots are stacked and clustered closely together, creating a sense of warmth and crunchiness. On the left side, there is a small clear glass bowl filled with smooth, thick red ketchup, showing glossy highlights. The scene is set against a white marbled texture beneath the tots and bowl, enhancing the colors of the food. Small pieces of fresh green parsley sprinkle over the tots adding a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tater tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tots and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to a few hours before baking. Just cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Are these tater tots gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, including the cornstarch. Just ensure that your seasonings and additional ingredients are gluten-free as well.