If you have ever dreamed of perfect, golden, and irresistible bites of crispy potato goodness, this Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe is going to steal your heart. Taking simple russet potatoes and transforming them into crunchy, flavorful tater tots is such a satisfying experience—especially when you know exactly what goes into them. These tots are crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with just the right touch of seasoning. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side, or a party favorite, this recipe delivers every time with a homemade charm that store-bought just can’t match.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in building texture, enhancing flavor, and creating that perfect golden color when fried. From the sturdy russet potatoes to the aromatic spices, each one is essential for delicious results.
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps bind the potatoes and adds extra crispness when frying.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory notes that elevate the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors and balances the seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a gentle kick for complexity.
- 1 quart vegetable oil: The best choice for frying to achieve that beautiful crunch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh, colorful garnish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe
Step 1: Parboil the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and chunked russet potatoes in a large pot filled with water. Bring it up to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 6 to 10 minutes—just until the potatoes become barely fork tender. This step ensures your tots will hold shape without turning mushy later on.
Step 2: Dry the Potatoes Thoroughly
After draining, spread the potatoes out on a clean kitchen cloth. Pat them dry with care because removing excess moisture helps prevent the oil from splattering and makes for crispier tots when fried.
Step 3: Pulse the Potatoes
Once the potatoes cool down, work in batches by placing half of them into a food processor. Pulse gently until chopped into small pieces roughly ⅛ to ¼ inch in size. This step breaks down the potatoes just enough without turning them into mash, which is key to that perfect tater tot texture.
Step 4: Mix in the Seasonings and Cornstarch
Gently fold in the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This combination binds the tots and infuses each bite with balanced, savory flavor that makes them addictive.
Step 5: Shape the Tots
Take small handfuls of the potato mixture and form into 1-inch long logs, carefully placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The uniform size ensures even frying and consistent crunchiness throughout.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden Brown
Heat your vegetable oil in a large pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the tots in batches so they cook evenly and don’t become oily. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden brown outside, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes per batch. Once fried, let them rest on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Sprinkle your hot tots with a little extra salt and, if you like, a scattering of fresh chopped parsley for color and brightness. Immediately serve them up to enjoy their crispy, freshly fried glory.
How to Serve Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds not only a beautiful pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, crispy tots. For an extra indulgent touch, you could drizzle a bit of spicy mayo or cheese sauce on top—totally delicious!
Side Dishes
These homemade crispy tater tots shine alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or as part of a brunch spread with eggs and bacon. They also pair wonderfully with a tangy ketchup, smoky ketchup, or even a cool ranch dip to mix up the flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box: serve your Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe in small shot glasses with dips at a party or layer them with melted cheese and bacon bits for a tasty tot casserole. They’re versatile enough to work as a snack, side, or even a craving-curbing meal base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep nicely for up to 2 days, maintaining much of their crispness when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze the shaped tater tots before frying by arranging them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can fry fresh batches whenever the craving strikes without starting from scratch.
Reheating
The key to reheating tater tots without losing that signature crisp is to use your oven or an air fryer. Heat at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again—skip the microwave if you want to avoid soggy tots.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes work best due to their high starch content, which gives you that crispy outside and fluffy inside; however, Yukon Golds can be used but might result in a slightly different texture.
Is it necessary to use a food processor?
While a food processor makes chopping easier and consistent, you can also finely dice the potatoes by hand if you prefer and want a bit more rustic texture.
Can I bake the tater tots instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, can yield crispy tots though frying usually gives the best crunch.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A kitchen thermometer is the safest bet, aiming for 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of potato in and if it sizzles immediately and floats, the oil is ready.
What are some good dipping sauces for tater tots?
Ketchup is classic, but don’t hesitate to try spicy aioli, ranch dressing, cheese sauce, or even a smoky chipotle dip to complement the tots’ savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making your own crispy, golden tater tots from scratch, and this Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe is a wonderfully straightforward way to bring that magic into your kitchen. Once you taste these crunchy bites, you’ll never want to go back to frozen. Grab your potatoes, heat the oil, and dive into the warm, crispy goodness that everyone will be asking for again and again!
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Homemade Crispy Tater Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy homemade tater tots made from peeled russet potatoes that are simmered until just tender, chopped, seasoned, formed into logs, and fried to golden perfection. These tots are a delicious snack or side dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
Seasoning & Coating
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Frying & Garnish
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a Dutch oven or large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are barely fork tender, about 6 to 10 minutes.
- Drain and dry the potatoes: Drain the potatoes in a colander and transfer them to a clean kitchen cloth spread in a single layer to dry completely and cool.
- Pulse potatoes: Once cool, transfer half of the potatoes to a food processor and pulse until chopped into small pieces about ¼ to ⅛ inch in size. Transfer to a bowl and repeat the process with the remaining potatoes.
- Mix seasoning: Gently fold in the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper into the chopped potatoes, ensuring even coating without mashing the potatoes.
- Form tots: Shape the seasoned potato mixture into 1-inch long logs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Heat oil and fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tots in small batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Sprinkle tater tots with additional salt and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best crispiness and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the potatoes are dry before forming and frying to avoid oil splatter.
- You can prepare the tots ahead of time and refrigerate before frying.
- Frying in small batches helps maintain oil temperature and crispness.
- For a gluten-free version, confirm cornstarch and seasoning are gluten-free.
- Use fresh russet potatoes for best texture and flavor.
