When it comes to quick and tasty snacks, few things can rival the crispy, golden goodness of homemade Air Fryer Tater Tots. Gone are the days of greasy, store-bought versions that leave you feeling guilty. With just a handful of simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these delightful tots that are perfect for dipping, snacking, or even as a side dish for your favorite meals. Let’s dive into the world of crispy, crunchy tater tots that are just as fun to make as they are to eat!
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Air Fryer Tater Tots recipe lies in its simplicity. By using thawed frozen shredded hash browns, you save time and effort without sacrificing flavor. The addition of olive oil, flour, and seasonings not only enhances the taste but also ensures a perfectly crispy texture when air-fried. Plus, air frying means less oil and fewer calories, making these tots a healthier option than traditional frying. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying a quiet night at home, these tots are sure to impress!
What You’ll Need
To make your own Air Fryer Tater Tots, gather the following ingredients:
- 16 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for seasoning after cooking)
These ingredients combine to create a deliciously seasoned and crispy treat that you’ll want to make over and over again.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show, it cooks the tots to perfection with minimal oil.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients easily.
- Spoon or Spatula: To mix and form the tots.
- Cooking Spray: Optional, for an extra crispy finish.
Having the right gear simplifies the cooking process and ensures everything goes smoothly.
Air Fryer Tater Tots, Made Easy
Ready to make your own Air Fryer Tater Tots? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Hash Browns
Start by thawing your frozen shredded hash browns. Drain any excess moisture to ensure your tots are crispy. You can place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out the water if necessary.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with olive oil, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Tots
Using your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized tots. Aim for a shape resembling traditional tater tots, about 1 inch long. Place them on a plate or tray as you go.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the tots will begin to cook evenly as soon as they are placed inside.
Step 5: Air Fry the Tots
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the formed tater tots in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once cooked, remove the tots from the air fryer and season with additional kosher salt to taste. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of Air Fryer Tater Tots, consider these alternatives:
- Use riced cauliflower instead of hash browns for a vegetable-based option.
- Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to lower carbs.
- Add shredded cheese to the mixture for a cheesy twist that also helps bind the ingredients.
These substitutions can help you enjoy a delicious snack while sticking to your dietary preferences.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues while making your Air Fryer Tater Tots, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- If the tots are falling apart, try adding a bit more flour to help bind them together.
- For extra crispiness, ensure the hash browns are well-drained before mixing.
- If your tots are browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly and extend the cooking time.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches will yield better results.
These tips will help you achieve the perfect tater tots every time.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers or want to prepare a batch ahead of time, here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your Air Fryer Tater Tots:
To store leftover tots, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply place the frozen or refrigerated tots in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shredded potatoes. Just make sure to rinse them well and dry them thoroughly to remove excess starch and moisture.
How do I make these tots spicier?
Add some cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick!
Can I make these tater tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the tots ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking or freeze them for longer storage.
What dipping sauces pair well with tater tots?
Popular dipping sauces include ketchup, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or even a creamy garlic dip. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Don’t Miss These
If you love tater tots, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:
These dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for comforting, hearty meals.
Final Thoughts
Making Air Fryer Tater Tots is not only a fun activity but also a rewarding one, as you get to enjoy delicious, crispy bites that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you can create a snack that is both satisfying and healthier than traditional fried options. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish or as a snack while binge-watching your favorite series, these tots are a guaranteed hit.
So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to a batch of homemade tater tots that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Air Fryer Tater Tots
Ingredients
- 16 ounces frozen shredded hash browns thawed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus extra for seasoning after cooking
Instructions
- Start by thawing your frozen shredded hash browns. Drain any excess moisture to ensure your tots are crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with olive oil, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized tots, about 1 inch long. Place them on a plate or tray as you go.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the formed tater tots in a single layer. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tots from the air fryer and season with additional kosher salt to taste. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Cooking Spray
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure the hash browns are well-drained before mixing.
- Cooking in batches might be necessary depending on your air fryer size.
- Experiment with different seasonings for unique flavors!
