Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer with a little space between each so hot air can circulate. Lightly spray or brush the tops with a small amount of oil (optional) to encourage browning. Bake on the middle rack for 20–25 minutes, flipping once about halfway through (at 10–12 minutes), until tots are golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and immediately season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Pan-fry method

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When oil is shimmering, add the frozen tots in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust, then turn tots every 2–3 minutes until evenly browned and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes total. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and season with salt and pepper.

Deep-fry method

Heat 2 cups (about 475 ml) vegetable oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry tots in small batches, 3–4 minutes per batch, until deeply golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel–lined tray and season immediately with salt and pepper.

Optional Mix-ins & Toppings

If adding shredded cheddar and bacon: after the tots are cooked and still hot, transfer them to a baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the tots and return to the hot oven for 2–3 minutes, or until cheese melts. Remove and sprinkle crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley over the top. Toss gently if you want uniform coverage.

Dipping Sauces

Serve ketchup, ranch, and/or spicy mayo on the side in small bowls for dipping. For spicy mayo: mix 3 parts mayonnaise with 1 part sriracha (adjust to taste) and stir until smooth.