Air Fryer Tater Tots Recipe

Frozen tater tots: These are pre-made potato bites that are frozen and ready to cook. They provide the base for this recipe.

Olive oil: This oil helps to crisp up the tater tots and adds a subtle flavor. It's a healthier alternative to other cooking oils.

Salt: This common seasoning enhances the flavor of the tater tots, making them more delicious.

To achieve extra crispy tater tots, make sure to preheat your air fryer thoroughly before adding the tater tots. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the basket; this ensures that hot air circulates evenly around each tot, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with frozen hash browns: Both are made from potatoes and have a similar texture when cooked, making them an easy swap.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with sweet potato tots: For a slightly different flavor and a boost in nutrients, sweet potato tots can be used.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is another neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, suitable for air frying.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Adds a bit of extra flavor while still providing the saltiness needed.

• salt - Substitute with seasoned salt: Seasoned salt can add additional flavors and spices, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Allow the tater tots to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled tater tots to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to maintain their crispiness.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• When freezing, consider placing the tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing them for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the tater tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• To reheat refrigerated tater tots, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• For frozen tater tots, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Avoid microwaving the tater tots as it can make them lose their crispiness. The air fryer is the best method to retain their texture.
• If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it's best to discard the tater tots to ensure food safety.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tater tots in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help retain their crispy texture.

• Use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tater tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method is great for reheating larger batches while keeping them crispy.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave. Place the tater tots on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the air fryer or oven.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the tater tots on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is convenient for small batches and maintains a good level of crispiness.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and place the tater tots in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they reheat evenly and regain some crispiness.

• Air fryer: An appliance that circulates hot air around the food to cook it, giving a crispy texture similar to frying without using much oil.

• Large bowl: Used for tossing the tater tots with olive oil and salt to ensure they are evenly coated.

• Measuring spoon: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil and salt to ensure the right flavor balance.

• Tongs: Handy for shaking the basket halfway through cooking and for serving the hot tater tots without burning your hands.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the hot tater tots once they are cooked and ready to enjoy.

Preheat efficiently: Preheat the air fryer while you prepare the tater tots to save time.

Use a large bowl: Toss the tater tots in a large bowl to ensure even coating with olive oil and salt.

Single layer cooking: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

Shake halfway: Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides are crispy.

Serve immediately: Serve the tater tots hot to enjoy their optimal crispiness.