Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside β the perfect tater tot is a culinary delight easily achieved with an air fryer. However, not all frozen tater tots are created equal.
Navigating the freezer aisle can be overwhelming, leaving you wondering which brand delivers on quality and value. With so many options available, finding the best tater tots in the air fryer requires careful consideration.
This review aims to simplify your decision-making process. We’ve rigorously tested a variety of brands to identify which ones truly shine when cooked in an air fryer.
Our goal is to help you discover the best tater tots in the air fryer that will consistently deliver a satisfying and delicious snacking experience.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Tater Tots In The Air Fryer Compared
π BEST OVERALL Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots Seasoned Shredded Frozen Potatoes
- Convenient and easy to prepare.
- Gluten-free.
- Versatile cooking methods (air fryer, oven, deep fryer).
- Good size bag for multiple servings.
4.6/5
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π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Grown in Idaho Crispy Potato Puffs
- Made with 100% real Idaho potatoes
- 0g Trans Fats per Serving
- Crispy and fluffy texture
- Quick and easy preparation (oven bake)
4.6/5
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οΏ½ BEST VALUE Air Fryer Magnetic Cheat Sheet Set – Air Fryer Acc
- Durable and waterproof material
- Includes two magnets with different layouts
- Clear categorization of foods
- Comprehensive list of over 100 foods
4.7/5
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Chefman Air Fryer β 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes
- Easy-to-use digital touchscreen with presets
- Hi-Fry technology for extra crispness
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
- Dishwasher-safe basket and rack for easy cleanup
4.8/5
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Silicone Air Fryer Liners for Ninja – Reusable 8 Q
- Precise fit for Ninja Foodi DZ201 8 quart
- Easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and non-stick
- Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone
- Reusable, reducing waste from disposable liners
4.4/5
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Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
- Versatile with 25 pre-set cooking functions.
- Large 26-quart capacity suitable for families.
- Automatic shut-off for toasting.
- Stylish stainless steel exterior with French doors.
4.6/5
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Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
- Spacious capacity for various food items.
- Precise temperature and timer control.
- Includes useful accessories (air fry basket, grill/griddle).
4.3/5
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Chefman Compact 6.3-Qt 4-In-1 Digital Air Fryer+
- Versatile: Air fryer, rotisserie, and dehydrator in one.
- Fast cooking with no preheating required.
- Easy to use capacitive touch screen with presets.
- Includes useful accessories for various cooking methods.
4.7/5
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Chefman Air Fryer TurboFry 7-Qt
- Versatile with 6 cooking functions.
- Large 7-quart capacity suitable for families.
- Space-saving design.
- Viewing window allows monitoring cooking progress.
4.5/5
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Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- Multi-functional with 6 cooking options.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Wide temperature range (Warm-450Β°F).
- Includes essential accessories.
4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Tater Tots In The Air Fryer
Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots Seasoned Shredded Frozen Potatoes – Convenient and easy to prepare.
Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots are a convenient and classic side dish option. The 32oz bag offers a good quantity for multiple meals and the gluten-free certification caters to specific dietary needs. Preparation is versatile, with instructions for air frying, oven baking, and deep frying, providing options based on preference and available equipment.
The tater tots are well-suited for dipping and pairing with various meals, making them a family-friendly choice. The sealed bag ensures proper storage in the freezer, maintaining freshness until ready to use. Being a Kosher certified product and SNAP & EBT eligible further broadens its appeal.
Pros
- Convenient and easy to prepare.
- Gluten-free.
- Versatile cooking methods (air fryer, oven, deep fryer).
- Good size bag for multiple servings.
- Suitable for various pairings and dipping.
- Kosher certified and SNAP & EBT eligible.
Cons
- Nutritional information not specified in product description (sodium, fat content).
- The crispy texture might vary depending on the cooking method used.
Grown in Idaho Crispy Potato Puffs – Made with 100% real Idaho potatoes
Grown in Idaho Crispy Potato Puffs offer a convenient and quick option for a side dish or snack. The 28 oz. bag provides a decent quantity for multiple servings.
Made with real Idaho potatoes and boasting 0g of trans fats per serving, they present a reasonably healthy alternative to some other processed potato products. The puffs are designed to be crispy on the outside and soft inside, delivering a pleasant textural contrast. Preparation is straightforward, requiring only oven baking at 420Β°F for 20 minutes.
While the taste is generally acceptable, some may find them a bit bland and require additional seasoning to enhance the flavor. Overall, they are a solid, easy-to-prepare potato snack.
Pros
- Made with 100% real Idaho potatoes
- 0g Trans Fats per Serving
- Crispy and fluffy texture
- Quick and easy preparation (oven bake)
- Convenient bite-sized format
Cons
- May require additional seasoning for some palates
- Serving size needs to be considered when assessing overall nutritional value
Air Fryer Magnetic Cheat Sheet Set – Air Fryer Acc – Durable and waterproof material
This air fryer cheat sheet magnet set offers a convenient way to quickly reference cooking times and temperatures for various foods. The set includes two magnets, a larger one for a comprehensive list and a smaller one featuring popular frozen foods with larger font for easy reading. The magnets are made of durable, waterproof material, ensuring longevity and resistance to kitchen spills.
The clear categorization of foods makes it easy to find what you’re looking for. While the comprehensive list is helpful, some users might find over 100 items overwhelming. Overall, it’s a practical tool that simplifies air frying, especially for beginners.
Pros
- Durable and waterproof material
- Includes two magnets with different layouts
- Clear categorization of foods
- Comprehensive list of over 100 foods
- Larger font on frozen food magnet for easy reading
- Universally compatible with different air fryer brands
Cons
- The extensive list of foods may be overwhelming for some users
- Magnet size might be too large for smaller refrigerators
Chefman Air Fryer β 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes – Easy-to-use digital touchscreen with presets
The Chefman 4-Quart Air Fryer offers a convenient and relatively compact solution for air frying. The digital touchscreen is straightforward, and the preset functions are a useful starting point for common dishes. The Hi-Fry technology, allowing for a temperature boost at the end of cooking, is a nice addition for achieving extra crispness.
The 4-quart capacity is suitable for smaller families or individuals. The inclusion of shake notifications is helpful for ensuring even cooking. Clean-up is simplified by the dishwasher-safe basket and rack.
Safety features like automatic shutoff provide peace of mind. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain. Overall, this air fryer seems like a solid option in its size category.
Pros
- Easy-to-use digital touchscreen with presets
- Hi-Fry technology for extra crispness
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
- Dishwasher-safe basket and rack for easy cleanup
- Shake notifications for even cooking
- Automatic shutoff for safety
Cons
- 4-quart capacity may be small for larger families
- Only comes in matte-black finish
Silicone Air Fryer Liners for Ninja – Reusable 8 Q – Precise fit for Ninja Foodi DZ201 8 quart
These silicone air fryer liners are designed for dual-basket air fryers, specifically the Ninja Foodi DZ201 8 quart model, but they also claim to fit other similarly sized air fryers. The set comes with two liners. A key selling point is easy cleanup, as they are dishwasher safe and non-stick, aiming to eliminate the hassle of scrubbing stuck-on food.
They are made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone and feature a ridged design intended to separate food from grease. The product also emphasizes reusability as an environmentally friendly alternative to disposable liners and promote versatility for cooking a range of foods, from snacks to entire meals, and are marketed for holiday parties.
Pros
- Precise fit for Ninja Foodi DZ201 8 quart
- Easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and non-stick
- Made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone
- Reusable, reducing waste from disposable liners
- Features a ridged design to separate food from grease
Cons
- Only fits specific dual-basket air fryer sizes.
- Silicone material may retain odors over time.
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo – Versatile with 25 pre-set cooking functions.
This air fryer and multi-cooker combo offers a range of cooking options thanks to its 25 pre-sets, including air frying, roasting, baking, and even slow cooking. The dual-speed fan aims to deliver crispy results using 360ΒΊ superheated air. Its 26-quart capacity is suitable for families or small gatherings, capable of handling a 6-lb chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
The stainless steel exterior and French door design add a touch of elegance to the kitchen. The automatic shut-off for toasting is a welcome feature to prevent burning. The internal light is helpful for monitoring the cooking process.
Overall, this appliance seems versatile, but real-world performance will determine its true value.
Pros
- Versatile with 25 pre-set cooking functions.
- Large 26-quart capacity suitable for families.
- Automatic shut-off for toasting.
- Stylish stainless steel exterior with French doors.
- Internal light for monitoring cooking progress.
Cons
- Large footprint may take up significant counter space.
- The effectiveness of all 25 pre-sets may vary; some might perform better than others.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill – Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers a versatile range of cooking functions, including air frying, toasting, baking, broiling, grilling, and warming. Its spacious interior can accommodate a 12-inch pizza or a 4-lb chicken, making it suitable for families. The adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer, and toast shade selector provide precise control over cooking.
The AirAdvantage technology aims to deliver crispy results, while the included accessories, such as the air fry basket and reversible grill/griddle, add to its functionality. The stainless steel interior is designed for easy cleaning. Overall, this appliance combines the functionality of an air fryer and toaster oven in a single unit.
Pros
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
- Spacious capacity for various food items.
- Precise temperature and timer control.
- Includes useful accessories (air fry basket, grill/griddle).
- Easy to clean stainless steel interior.
Cons
- Relatively large footprint may require significant counter space.
- 1800 Watts might be too much for older electrical circuits.
Chefman Compact 6.3-Qt 4-In-1 Digital Air Fryer+ – Versatile: Air fryer, rotisserie, and dehydrator in one.
The Chefman 6.3-Quart Air Fryer is a versatile appliance that combines air frying, rotisserie, and dehydrating functions into one unit. It offers a wide temperature range and several preset options, making it suitable for various cooking tasks. The included accessories, such as air flow racks, rotisserie spit, and rotating basket, enhance its functionality.
The interior lighting allows for easy monitoring of the cooking process. The appliance cooks faster than a conventional oven and requires no preheating, potentially saving time and energy. Cleaning is simplified with a removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts.
While the large capacity is beneficial for families, storing the appliance might require significant counter space. Overall, it presents itself as a convenient solution for those seeking a multi-functional cooking appliance.
Pros
- Versatile: Air fryer, rotisserie, and dehydrator in one.
- Fast cooking with no preheating required.
- Easy to use capacitive touch screen with presets.
- Includes useful accessories for various cooking methods.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Large 6.3-quart capacity suitable for families.
Cons
- Large size may require significant counter space.
- Reliability and longevity beyond the 1-year warranty are unknown.
Chefman Air Fryer TurboFry 7-Qt – Versatile with 6 cooking functions.
The Chefman TurboFry Air Fryer offers a versatile and potentially faster cooking experience with its high-tech DC motor and a maximum temperature of 450Β°F. The 6-in-1 functionality, including air frying, broiling, dehydrating, convection baking, reheating, and a specific frozen food setting, provides a wide range of cooking options. Its space-saving design and 7-quart capacity are suitable for families, and the viewing window allows for easy monitoring of food progress.
The nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe rack promise easy cleanup. While the higher wattage suggests potentially faster cooking, it’s important to consider energy consumption. Overall, this air fryer seems to offer a balance of features and convenience.
Pros
- Versatile with 6 cooking functions.
- Large 7-quart capacity suitable for families.
- Space-saving design.
- Viewing window allows monitoring cooking progress.
- Easy cleanup with nonstick basket and dishwasher-safe rack.
- High temperature and ‘Frozen’ function offer specialized cooking options.
Cons
- Higher wattage (1750W) may consume more energy.
- The faster cooking claims may not be universally applicable and will vary based on food type and quantity.
Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Multi-functional with 6 cooking options.
The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers a convenient multi-functional appliance for smaller kitchens. It boasts six different cooking functions, including air frying, toasting, convection baking and broiling, pizza making, and warming. The temperature range is adequate, going from Warm to 450Β°F.
The compact design is a definite plus for saving counter space, while still being able to air fry a decent amount of food (up to 2.5 lbs) or bake an 8-inch pizza. The controls appear simple and straightforward to use. Included accessories like the oven rack, baking pan, and air fry basket add value.
The 3-year warranty provides some reassurance regarding the product’s durability.
Pros
- Multi-functional with 6 cooking options.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Wide temperature range (Warm-450Β°F).
- Includes essential accessories.
- Simple, user-friendly controls.
- Backed by a 3-year warranty.
Cons
- Capacity might be limited for larger families.
- Smaller size may require longer cooking times for larger meals.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Tater Tots In The Air Fryer
Choosing the Right Tater Tots
When selecting tater tots for your air fryer, consider factors like ingredients, size, and seasonings. Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots are a classic choice, known for their consistent crispness and gluten-free recipe. Grown in Idaho Crispy Potato Puffs offer a bite-sized alternative made with real Idaho potatoes. Look for tots with minimal trans fats for a healthier option. Ultimately, the best tater tots in the air fryer are the ones that suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with different brands to discover your favorite!
Selecting the Ideal Air Fryer
The air fryer you choose significantly impacts the final result. Consider size, features, and ease of use. Compact models like the Chefman 4 QT Compact Airfryer are great for small spaces, while larger models like the Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo or the Chefman Compact 6.3-Qt 4-In-1 Digital Air Fryer+ are better suited for families. Features like pre-set cooking functions, temperature control, and shake notifications can enhance the air frying experience. If you’re serious about the best tater tots in the air fryer, research the features that will help you achieve optimal crispiness.
Essential Air Fryer Accessories
Enhance your air frying experience with essential accessories. Air fryer liners, such as the Silicone Air Fryer Liners for Ninja, make cleanup easier and prevent food from sticking. An Air Fryer Magnetic Cheat Sheet Set is a handy reference for cooking times and temperatures. The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill comes with accessories like an air fry basket and grill/griddle. Investing in quality accessories can improve the overall cooking process and help you achieve perfectly cooked, crispy tater tots every time.
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
Achieving the perfect crisp for your tater tots in the air fryer requires a few simple techniques. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote browning on all sides. Experiment with different cooking times and temperatures to find what works best for your air fryer model. Some air fryers, like the Chefman Air Fryer TurboFry 7-Qt, have a ‘Frozen’ function specifically designed for cooking frozen foods like tater tots.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Tater Tots In The Air Fryer
How long should I cook tater tots in the air fryer?
The cooking time can vary depending on your air fryer model and the brand of tater tots, but a general guideline is to cook them at 400Β°F (200Β°C) for 12-15 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Check for your desired level of crispness and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Using an Air Fryer Magnetic Cheat Sheet Set can provide helpful guidelines for cooking frozen foods like the best tater tots in the air fryer.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking tater tots?
While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer can help achieve a more even and crispy result. Preheat your air fryer to 400Β°F (200Β°C) for about 3-5 minutes before adding the tater tots. This helps to ensure that the tots start cooking immediately and develop a nice golden-brown crust. Some air fryers, like the Chefman models, offer fast cooking with no preheating required, but consider preheating if you want the best tater tots in the air fryer.
Should I use oil when air frying tater tots?
Most frozen tater tots already contain some oil, so adding extra oil is usually not necessary. However, if you want to enhance the crispness, you can lightly spray the tater tots with cooking oil before air frying. This can help to promote browning and create a more satisfying texture. Using too much oil can make the tots greasy, so use it sparingly. The goal is to achieve the best tater tots in the air fryer with minimal added oil.
How do I prevent tater tots from sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent sticking, you can use parchment paper liners or silicone air fryer liners like the Silicone Air Fryer Liners for Ninja. These liners create a non-stick surface and make cleanup much easier. Alternatively, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before adding the tater tots. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can also contribute to sticking. Proper maintenance and cleaning of your air fryer basket are also essential for preventing sticking.
What are some dipping sauce pairings for air fryer tater tots?
Tater tots are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic options include ketchup, ranch dressing, and barbecue sauce. For a more adventurous flavor profile, try dipping them in sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination. The best tater tots in the air fryer can be elevated with the right dipping sauce, so have fun exploring your options.
Can I cook other frozen snacks in the air fryer along with tater tots?
Yes, you can typically cook other frozen snacks along with tater tots in the air fryer, but it’s important to consider the cooking times and temperatures of each item. Choose snacks that require similar cooking conditions to ensure that everything is cooked properly. Avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain even cooking. Using an Air Fryer Magnetic Cheat Sheet Set can help you determine the appropriate cooking times for different frozen foods.
How do I clean my air fryer after cooking tater tots?
Cleaning your air fryer after cooking tater tots is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. Most air fryer baskets and racks are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions. If washing by hand, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. Regularly cleaning your air fryer will help prevent food buildup and ensure that your next batch of tater tots is just as delicious.
Are air fried tater tots healthier than deep-fried tater tots?
Yes, air-fried tater tots are generally considered healthier than deep-fried tater tots. Air frying uses significantly less oil, which reduces the fat and calorie content of the dish. This makes air-fried tater tots a lighter and more nutritious option. While they may not be as indulgent as deep-fried tots, they still offer a satisfyingly crispy texture and delicious flavor. Choosing the best tater tots in the air fryer is a healthier way to enjoy this snack.
What are the benefits of using an air fryer toaster oven for cooking tater tots?
Air fryer toaster ovens, such as the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo and the Cuisinart models, offer several advantages for cooking tater tots. They provide a larger cooking capacity, allowing you to cook more tater tots at once. They also offer versatile cooking functions, such as toasting, baking, and grilling. The precise temperature and timer control ensure that your tater tots are cooked to perfection every time.
Can I reheat leftover tater tots in the air fryer?
Yes, reheating leftover tater tots in the air fryer is a great way to restore their crispness. Simply preheat your air fryer to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and cook the tater tots for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method is much better than microwaving, which can make the tater tots soggy. Enjoy your leftover best tater tots in the air fryer as if they were freshly cooked.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots Seasoned Shredded Frozen Potatoes Tots are a reliable and convenient option for a quick and easy side dish. Their versatility in preparation and gluten-free status make them a solid choice for families and individuals alike; recommended for those seeking a classic comfort food.