Take your tater tots to the next level with these Cheddar-Stuffed Tater Tots! Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, snacking, or as a fun side dish. Made effortlessly in the air fryer, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal oil.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crispiness)
- Cooking spray
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tater Tots:
- Let the frozen tater tots thaw slightly until pliable (about 10 minutes at room temperature).
- Stuff with Cheese:
- Flatten each tater tot gently with your fingers. Place a small pinch of shredded cheddar in the center, then carefully reshape the tater tot around the cheese to seal it in. Repeat for all tots.
- Coat for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Lightly coat each stuffed tot in this mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Tater Tots:
- Place the tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Serve:
- Remove the tots when golden and crispy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves
- Serves 4 people as a snack or appetizer.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 390mg
Key Notes
- Cheese Variations: Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Crispier Tots: Ensure the tots are spaced out in the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Stuff and freeze the tots ahead of time for quick air frying later.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair with sour cream, marinara, or barbecue sauce for added variety.
Enjoy these irresistible Cheddar-Stuffed Tater Tots as a crunchy, cheesy treat! Let me know if you need more tips or variations. 😊