Tots Recipe
Make Tots Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Tater Tot Base
Optional Mix-ins / Toppings (choose any)
Dipping Sauce (optional)
Method
Tater Tot Base
Preheat
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer to pan-fry or air-fry, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly brush or spray with 1 tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking and promote crisping.
Arrange Tots
Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared sheet, leaving small gaps so hot air can circulate. Do not overcrowd; use two sheets if necessary.
Season and Optional Butter
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon oil evenly over the tots and sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper and smoked paprika (if using). For extra richness, brush with melted butter now or when they come out of the oven.
Bake
Place the baking sheet on the middle rack and bake for 18–22 minutes, turning the tots gently with a spatula halfway through for even browning. Bake until tots are deep golden brown and crisp on the outside (internal temperature of reheated tots is not critical but should be hot throughout).
Optional Mix-ins / Toppings
Cheesy tots: in the last 3–4 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the tots and return to the oven until cheese melts and bubbles.
Loaded tots: after baking, transfer tots to a serving plate. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top. Dollop sour cream or drizzle warmed chili over the tots for a heartier dish.
Spicy / pickled: scatter chopped pickled jalapeños over finished tots and garnish with extra green onions to add heat and acidity.
Finish and season: taste and add additional salt, pepper or smoked paprika if desired.
Dipping Sauce (optional)
Combine: in a small bowl whisk together ketchup, mayonnaise, hot sauce and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust hot sauce to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve: place sauce in a small bowl alongside the tots for dipping.