Tater tots are an American classic and a bite-sized potato that is perfect for snacking. They are also a great addition to any meal and can be cooked in several ways.
Many ask if you can microwave tater tots, and the answer is yes! You can microwave this popular snack. This article will discuss how to cook tater tots in the microwave, as well as some tips for making them taste their best.
Step-by-Step Guide for Microwaving Tater Tots
There are a few variations on how to microwave tater tots. One option is to place them in a microwavable bag. This will help them stay together and not fall apart.
The process for microwaving tater tots is very simple:
- Set the microwave at full power.
- Place the tater tots in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cook them for about three minutes or until they are heated through.
Keep these tips in mind as you’re cooking:
- First, be sure to cook them in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
- Second, make sure to cook them for only 2-3 minutes. If you cook them for too long, they will become dry and not as tasty.
Can I Microwave Frozen Tater Tots?
Yes, you can microwave frozen tater tots. Simply follow the same steps as above, but increase the cooking time by a minute or two.
What Are Some Other Ways to Cook Tater Tots?
You can fry them, bake them, or even grill them.
How to Fry Tater Tots
To fry tater tots follow these steps:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, and then add the tots.
- Cook them for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
How to Cook Tater Tots in the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the tater tots in a single layer.
Next, bake the tots for 20-25 minutes. Once they finish cooking, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. If you want to add some extra flavor, you can also try sprinkling them with salt, pepper, or cheese before eating.
Another option is to cook them in a muffin tin in the oven. This will give them a nice, crispy outside and a soft inside. You can do this method in the microwave as well as long as you use a microwave safe dish.
Can I Grill Tater Tots?
Yes, you can grill tater tots. Place them on a greased grill over medium-high heat, and cook them for 3-5 minutes per side.
How to Improve the Taste of Tater Tots
There are a few tips you can follow to make sure your tater tots taste their best:
- Use fresh potatoes. frozen tots will not have the same flavor as fresh tots.
- Don’t overcrowd the tots on the baking sheet. they should have room to breathe in the oven
- Make sure your tots are fully cooked before eating.
- Add some flavor by sprinkling them with salt, pepper, or cheese before eating.
How to Make Tater Tots From Scratch
If you want to make tater tots from scratch:
- Start by boiling some potatoes for about ten minutes or until soft.
- Let the potatoes cool.
- Shred the potatoes.
- Mix in some salt, pepper, and another seasoning you like.
- Use a spoon or your hands to form the mixture into small tots.
Now you can choose your cooking method. See steps for baking or frying.
One way to make your tater tots extra crispy is to leave them in the oven for an extra five minutes. Some people suggest coating the tots with bacon grease.
Another option is to spray them with cooking spray before baking. It will help achieve a nice, crispy outside.
While microwaving is convenient, baking tots in the oven is the best way to make them crispy.
What to Serve with Tater Tots
Tater tots make a great side dish or appetizer. They are perfect for adding some extra flavor and carbs to any meal.
Some recipes that go well with tater tots include:
- Baked mac and cheese
- Chicken nuggets
- Salad
How to Store Cooked Tater Tots
If you have any leftover tater tots, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. To reheat frozen tots, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cook them at full power for 2-3 minutes.
Related Questions
If you still have questions, check out the quick answers below.
Can I freeze tater tots?
Yes, you can freeze tater tots. Just make sure they are in a single layer before freezing, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for 3-4 months.
What else can I make with tater tots?
Tater tots are also great for making hash browns. Take some thawed-out tater tots, mashed them together, and press them in a waffle iron.
Are tater tots gluten free?
Yes, tater tots are usually gluten free. However, they may contain other allergens, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.
What is the difference between tater tots and hash browns?
We use shredded potatoes for both items. Tater tots are also usually smaller in size than hash browns. We form tater tots into a round pod but flatten out hash browns.
What is the difference between French fries and tater tots?
French fries are typically made with a thicker cut of potatoes, while tater tots consist of shredded potatoes. We usually cook french fries by way of frying. Tater tots can be fried, baked, or grilled.
Wrap-Up
Cook this popular snack in the microwave in just a few minutes. You can cook or reheat them in other ways like baking and grilling. So get some ketchup or chipotle mayo, and enjoy these as a treat or side dish.
