Name: Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 16 ounce bags frozen potatoes (thawed); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 large pinch kosher salt; 1/2 clove garlic (grated); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano leaves

When it comes to comfort food, few things can compete with the nostalgic crunch of tater tots. But what if I told you that you could elevate this beloved snack to a whole new level? Enter Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots. These golden nuggets are not just your average potato bites; they are infused with rich, nutty parmesan cheese and a blend of aromatic herbs. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, an appetizer, or a party snack, these tater tots will steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots stand out from the rest? It’s all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of grated parmesan and fresh herbs gives these tots a savory depth, while the baking method ensures they come out crispy without the need for frying. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, using just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Say goodbye to frozen, bland tater tots and hello to a homemade treat that’s bursting with flavor!

What Goes Into Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots.

To create these irresistible Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 (16 ounce) bags frozen potatoes, thawed – The base of our tater tots. Choose a brand that has a good texture and flavor.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – This helps to coat the potatoes for that crispy finish.
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese – The star ingredient that adds flavor and richness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This helps bind the tots together for the perfect texture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle garlic flavor that complements the parmesan.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic herb that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
1 large pinch kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the tots.
1/2 clove garlic, grated – Fresh garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano leaves – Fresh herbs add vibrancy and brightness.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To whip up your Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots, gather the following tools:

Baking sheet – To spread the tots out for even baking.
Parchment paper – Optional, for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients.
Spatula or spoon – To mix and form your tater tots.
Grater – For grating fresh garlic and parmesan cheese.

Stepwise Method: Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfectly crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed potatoes with the olive oil. Toss them well to ensure that all the potatoes are coated evenly.

Step 3: Add the Flavors

Next, add the grated parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, grated garlic, and fresh thyme or oregano leaves to the bowl. Mix everything together until the potatoes are well-coated and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Form the Tater Tots

Using your hands (or a spoon), take small amounts of the mixture and form them into small, bite-sized tots. Aim for a size similar to traditional tater tots for the best texture. Place each formed tot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Lightly coat the tops of the tater tots with a little extra virgin olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the tater tots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

Seasonal Spins

These Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots are versatile and can be easily adapted for different seasons and occasions. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Fall Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm autumn twist.
Spicy Kick – Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Herb Garden – Use a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and basil for a vibrant, fresh flavor.
Cheesy Delight – Mix in other types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy explosion.

Steer Clear of These

To ensure your tater tots turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – This can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Avoid using too much flour – It can make the tots dense instead of light and crispy.
Don’t skip the olive oil coating – This is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
For longer storage, freeze baked tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated from frozen in the oven.

Reader Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, peel and grate them, then follow the same steps. Just be sure to remove excess moisture to achieve that crispy texture.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tater tots?

These tater tots are delicious with a variety of sauces! Try them with ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

Can I make these tater tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tots and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to customize the flavor?

Feel free to get creative! You can add your favorite herbs, spices, or even mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an added nutritional boost.

That’s a Wrap

Crispy Baked Parmesan Tater Tots are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any meal. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, herb-infused interior, they’re bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re enjoying them on game day, at a gathering, or simply as a delicious snack, these tater tots will elevate your comfort food game. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate crispy treat!