Ingredients
4 cups frozen tater tots, thawed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar blend)
2–3 tbsp finely chopped chives or green onions
1 large egg
2–3 tbsp flour (optional, helps bind)
Salt & pepper to taste
Oil for frying (or bake/air fry)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture
Add the thawed tater tots to a large bowl.
Mash them lightly with a fork or your hands until chunky but not smooth.
Add cheese, chopped chives, egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until combined.
- Shape into bites
Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into small balls or nugget shapes.
Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Cook them
Frying (crispiest result)
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes, until golden and crunchy.
Drain on paper towels.
Air Fryer
Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Spray bites with oil and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Oven
Preheat to 425°F (220°C).
Place on a baking sheet, mist with oil, bake 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Serve
Top with extra chives and enjoy with:
Spicy mayo
Ranch
Buffalo sauce
Cheese sauce
Ketchup
If you’d like, I can also give you: ✅ A healthier version
✅ A spicy version
✅ A stuffed (cheese cube inside) version
✅ A dipping sauce recipe