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Crispy Air Fryer Tater Tots
Summer Rose

Air Fryer Tater Tots

Crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, these Air Fryer Tater Tots are an easy side dish or snack that comes together in just minutes. Frozen tater tots cook at 400°F until golden and crunchy, then get finished with a little seasoning while they're still hot.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 28 to 32-ounce bag frozen tater tots
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt optional
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional
For Serving (Optional):
  • Ketchup
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic aioli
  • Cheese sauce
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Spicy mayo

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • mixing bowl (optional, for seasoning)
  • Silicone tongs or spatula
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes if your model recommends it.
  2. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  3. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket after about 6 minutes.
  4. Continue cooking until the tots are evenly golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer the hot tater tots to a serving bowl.
  6. Sprinkle with seasoned salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Parmesan, and parsley if using.
  7. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Cook the tater tots a few minutes shy of fully crisp, then finish them in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes just before serving.
  • Seasoning swap: Cajun seasoning, ranch seasoning, taco seasoning, or a fry seasoning blend can replace the listed seasonings.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • For better crisping: Keep the tots in a single layer when possible and shake the basket halfway through cooking.