If you’ve ever wondered how to make Homemade Tater Tots from scratch, you’re in for a treat! These crispy, golden potato bites are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and taste even better than the frozen version. Crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, homemade tater tots are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, snack, or party food.
Made with real potatoes, a little flour, and salt, these homemade tots are a fun kitchen project that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them alongside burgers, sandwiches, breakfast, or your favorite dipping sauces, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Once you make homemade tater tots, you’ll never look at frozen tater tots the same way again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple ingredients
- Crispy outside and fluffy inside
- Better than store-bought frozen tots
- Great for snacks and side dishes
- Family-friendly recipe
- Perfect for dipping
- Freezer-friendly
These homemade tater tots are everything you love about the classic version but made fresh in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Potatoes
- Flour
- Salt
- Oil or lard for frying
Optional Seasonings
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Seasoning salt
- Ranch seasoning
- Parmesan cheese
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Box grater
- Mixing bowl
- Slotted spoon
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Thermometer
- Paper towels
- Baking sheet (for freezing)
Why Parboil the Potatoes?
Parboiling is the secret to getting the perfect tater tot texture.
Partially cooking the potatoes before grating helps:
- Remove excess moisture
- Improve texture
- Help the tots hold together
- Create a fluffy interior
This simple step makes a huge difference in the final result.
Tips for the Best Homemade Tater Tots
- Don’t overcook the potatoes when parboiling.
- Allow potatoes to cool before grating.
- Use the large holes on your grater.
- Gently mix the ingredients to avoid making the potatoes gummy.
- Keep the oil around 360°F for the crispiest tots.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Season immediately after frying.
Can You Freeze Homemade Tater Tots?
Absolutely!
Freeze Before Frying
- Shape the tater tots.
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid.
- Transfer to freezer bags.
Storage Time
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cook From Frozen
Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator
Store cooked tater tots in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
For the crispiest texture:
- Air fryer: 375°F for 4-5 minutes
- Oven: 400°F for 8-10 minutes
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crispy exterior.
What to Serve with Homemade Tater Tots
These crispy tots pair perfectly with:
- Hamburgers
- Cheeseburgers
- Hot dogs
- Chicken tenders
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Breakfast eggs
- Meatloaf
- BBQ dishes
Favorite Dipping Sauces
- Ketchup
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
- Honey mustard
- Fry sauce
- Cheese sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
What potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are the best choice because they create a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
Why are my tater tots falling apart?
The potatoes may have too much moisture or may not have been parboiled long enough.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Brush lightly with oil and bake at 425°F until golden and crispy, turning halfway through.
Can I air fry homemade tater tots?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F until crispy and golden brown.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. These freeze beautifully and can be cooked directly from frozen.
More Homemade Side Dishes You’ll Love
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Tater Tots are crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version.
Whether you’re serving them with burgers, breakfast, or as an afternoon snack, these homemade tots are sure to become a family favorite. Make a double batch and freeze some for later—you’ll be glad you did!
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Homemade Tater Tots
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. potatoes
- 2 tbsp. flour
- 1 tsp. salt Redmond real salt
- Oil for frying lard is my favorite
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes, keep them whole or cut them in half. Place them in a pot with enough water to cover them.
- Parboil potatoes for 7 to 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool enough so you can handle them.
- Grate them on the big holes of your grater.
- Place them in a bowl.
- Add the flour and salt mix gently.
- Heat the oil up to 360F.
- Use about 2 teaspoons potato mixture for each tot.
- Shape the potato mixture gently until it is in the shape of a tater tot.
- Fry, a few at a time, in the hot oil just until they are golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and season to taste.
