Air Fryer Tater Tots

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Air Fryer Tater Tots cook frozen tater tots to golden, crispy perfection quickly and evenly. The method uses high heat, light oil, and a mid-cook shake to achieve a crunchy exterior without flipping.

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Prep Time 2

Cook Time 15

Total Time 17

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

6 cups frozen tater tots use straight from freezer; thawing causes sogginess
3 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon per 2 cups; light coating prevents sticking
0.5 teaspoon salt add immediately after cooking while tots are hot
0.25 teaspoon black pepper season after cooking
0.25 teaspoon paprika adds color and mild smoky flavor
0.25 teaspoon garlic powder optional; adds savory depth
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese optional; sprinkle immediately after cooking

Equipment

Air fryer Used for cooking the tater tots
Mixing bowl To toss tater tots with oil

Method

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to create immediate heat for faster crisping.
In a mixing bowl, toss the frozen tater tots with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil per 2 cups until lightly coated. Do not thaw the tots.
6 cups frozen tater tots, 3 teaspoons vegetable oil
Arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook a maximum of 6 cups per batch to prevent sogginess.
6 cups frozen tater tots
Cook for 10 minutes, then shake the basket vigorously to flip the tots. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on edges.
6 cups frozen tater tots
Immediately after removing from the basket, season the hot tots with salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional garlic powder and parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat and serve.
0.5 teaspoon salt, 0.25 teaspoon black pepper, 0.25 teaspoon paprika, 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

Notes

Preheat the air fryer to ensure instant crisping at the start.
Do not overcrowd the basket; cook a maximum of 6 cups per batch for best results.
Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

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