Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Tater Tots
- Season Tater Tots: If desired, place the frozen tater tots in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle with salt and any additional seasonings you like, then toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Single Layer: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
Step 4: Cook the Tater Tots
- Air Fry: Cook the tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, check for crispiness. If you prefer them crispier, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked tater tots to a serving plate. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or cheese sauce.
Tips for Success
- Even Layer: Ensure the tater tots are spread out in an even layer in the air fryer basket for the best results.
- Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps the tater tots cook evenly and get crispy all around.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Variations
- Loaded Tater Tots: Top with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions after cooking. Return to the air fryer for an additional 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Spicy Tater Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Tater Tots: Toss with dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a herby flavor.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer tater tots are a simple yet delicious snack that can be whipped up in no time. The air fryer ensures they are perfectly crispy without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried tater tots. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a side dish, these air fryer tater tots are sure to be a hit.