Homemade Tater Tots are proof that sometimes the simplest snacks bring the most joy. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with that nostalgic potato flavor, these bite-sized treats are impossible to resist. They’re a throwback to childhood lunch trays and late-night cravings, but when made at home, they become something even better, fresher, crispier, and way more satisfying.
What makes homemade tater tots stand out is the texture. Unlike fries or mashed potatoes, tots have a unique, shredded consistency that gives them that signature bite. When they’re made from scratch, you can control everything, from the seasoning and oil to the size and crunch factor. That means you can go classic with just salt and pepper or get creative with garlic, herbs, or even cheese mixed right into the potatoes.
They’re also surprisingly fun to make. Once the potatoes are parboiled, grated, and seasoned, shaping the tots can feel almost meditative. It’s one of those kitchen tasks that’s satisfying in its rhythm. Plus, you get to decide how crispy you want them, pan-fried for that golden crunch, baked for a lighter feel, or even air-fried if you’re skipping extra oil.
Tater tots are incredibly versatile, too. Serve them as a side dish, use them as the base for a breakfast hash, or pile them high with toppings for a loaded tot platter. They’re perfect party food and also a smart way to use up leftover potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or just yourself, they always bring a little extra excitement to the plate.
Most of all, there’s something deeply comforting about a batch of tater tots fresh from your own kitchen. It’s a snack that feels both playful and familiar, and the satisfaction of knowing you made them yourself makes each bite even better. Homemade tater tots aren’t just a side dish, they’re a crispy little celebration of everything we love about potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes Peeled
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 cups Vegetable oil For frying
Instructions
- Peel and parboil the potatoes in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Drain and let them cool enough to handle.
- Grate the parboiled potatoes using a box grater, then transfer the grated potatoes to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Shape the potato mixture into small tots using your hands, then set them aside on a plate.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tots in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove the tots from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Tater tots are da bomb! I can’t believe I can make them at home now, thanks for sharing!
Why do people make these from scratch? Just buy them frozen! It’s easier and tastes the same.
I didn’t have vegetable oil, so I used olive oil. Bad idea! They didn’t taste right. Stick to the recipe, folks.
Came out like mush, my dog wouldn’t even eat ’em. Followed the recipe but still a flop.
I thought these were gonna be hard to make but the instructions were perfect! Just like my grandma used to make.
I left out the garlic, but these were still super tasty! Next time I’ll add cheese too. Yum!
I don’t know what I did wrong, but mine turned out soggy. 😕 Maybe I didn’t fry them long enough?
These tater tots are amazing! I made them for my kids and they gobbled them up. Definitely a recipe to keep!
Is it really necessary to parboil the potatoes? Seems like a lot of trouble for some tots.
Just made this and I have to say, #taterlove! Crispy and golden 😍.