Homemade Potato Balls (Tater Tots) recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled
  • 1 tsp salt (plus more for seasoning)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for crispier texture)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for coating)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions

  1. Boil Potatoes:
    Place peeled potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until just fork-tender but not falling apart (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and let them cool slightly.
  2. Grate Potatoes:
    Once cool enough to handle, grate the potatoes using a box grater. Avoid mashing—they should have texture.
  3. Mix & Season:
    In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and flour. Mix until the mixture holds together.
  4. Shape Tater Tots:
    Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture and roll into a small ball or cylinder shape. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
  5. Coat for Crispiness:
    Dip each ball in the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until well coated.
  6. Fry:
    Heat oil in a deep skillet (about 350°F/175°C). Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown and crispy—about 3-4 minutes per side.
  7. Drain & Serve:
    Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Sprinkle with a little salt while hot. Serve with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce!

Want to bake or air fry them instead? I got tips for that too!

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