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Crispy Air Fryer Tater Tots Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 57 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
  • Total Time: 36-38 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy Air Fryer Tater Tots recipe transforms frozen shredded hash browns into crispy, golden-brown tots with a flavorful blend of garlic and onion powder. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these tots require minimal prep and cook quickly in the air fryer for a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt


Instructions

  1. Pulse Potatoes: Using a food processor, pulse the shredded hash browns until they are finely chopped but not pureed to ensure a good texture for the tots.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped potatoes, olive oil, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix gently to incorporate all ingredients without mashing the potatoes too much.
  3. Shape Tots: Using a small spoon, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a 1-inch long tot with your hands. Place each tot onto a greased air fryer pan to prevent sticking.
  4. Air Fry: Lightly mist the shaped tots with olive oil cooking spray to promote crispiness. Cook in the air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 16-18 minutes. Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping and browning.
  5. Serve: Once golden brown and crispy, remove the tots from the air fryer. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired, and serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
  6. Storage: Store leftover tater tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Notes

  • Thaw the frozen hash browns completely to avoid excess moisture which can prevent crispiness.
  • Do not over-process the potatoes; they should remain slightly coarse for texture.
  • Use olive oil spray instead of pouring oil directly to lightly coat the tots evenly.
  • Shake the basket during cooking to prevent tots from sticking and ensure even browning.
  • Reheat leftover tots in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness instead of microwaving.