I’m so excited to share this recipe for cheesy potato tots with you all. I’ve been making it for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for them to get involved. We like to serve these tots as a side dish for our favorite comfort foods, like burgers and sandwiches. But they’re also delicious on their own as a snack or appetizer.
Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into our diet. The combination of crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory seasonings is absolutely irresistible. I’ve even taken them to potlucks and family gatherings, and they always disappear in no time.
My kids have even asked me to make them for their friends when they come over for playdates! The best part is that this recipe is versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding different seasonings or toppings. My husband loves the addition of crispy bacon bits, while my kids prefer them plain with ketchup or ranch dressing.
Whatever way you choose to make them, I guarantee you’ll be hooked from the very first bite! So go ahead, give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Do you have a favorite potato dish?
Let me know in the comments below!
Cheesy Potato Tots
4.6 from 1676 votes
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these homemade cheesy potato tots are packed with melted cheddar and savory seasonings. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they are baked to golden perfection with a gooey cheese center.
1Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible, ensuring the tots hold together.
3In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4Mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together when pressed.
5Shape the mixture into small cylindrical tots, about 1 inch long and 3/4 inch thick, pressing firmly to compact each one.
6Arrange the tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even browning.
7Bake the tots for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each one with a spatula.
8Continue baking for another 10 to 12 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out hot.
9Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tots cool for 2 minutes.
10Sprinkle with fresh chives if desired, and serve warm with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
For extra crispiness, you can spray the tots lightly with cooking oil before baking. If you prefer a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture. Leftover tots can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes.
Watch Video Of How Cheesy Potato Tots Works
These cheesy potato tots are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering.
They’re easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated in just minutes when needed.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it with different toppings or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Potato Tots
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
You can use any variety of potato you like, but Russet or Yukon Gold work best because they hold their shape well after being cooked.
Can I make these tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tots up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
How do I get the cheese to melt perfectly on top of the tots?
To achieve a perfectly melted cheese topping, make sure to use a good quality cheddar or mozzarella cheese that melts well. Also, try broiling the tots for an extra minute or two after baking to get that golden-brown crust.
Can I substitute other types of cheese for the cheddar?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as Parmesan, Swiss or even feta if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Do I need to add any additional seasonings besides salt and pepper?
While salt and pepper are essential seasonings for these tots, feel free to add other herbs like parsley or thyme if you like.
Can I freeze these tots for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tots for up to 3 months and reheat them in the oven when needed.
Bang Bang Sauce is a spicy, creamy, and tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. It is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip…
Sweet Noodle Kugel is a comforting Jewish comfort food made with wide egg noodles, a sweet and creamy custard filling, and a crunchy streusel topping. It’s a pe…
This creamy honey cinnamon butter is the perfect topping for baked or roasted sweet potatoes. It adds a sweet and spiced flavor that complements the natural swe…
Crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, these cod fish cakes are a delicious and healthy dish. Serve with a side of tartar sauce or lemon wedges for a pe…
This hearty turkey chili simmers all day in a slow cooker, filling your home with a rich, savory aroma. Lean ground turkey and a blend of beans and spices creat…
