24 Tater Tot Recipes That Will Make You Glad You've Got a Bag in the Freezer

Potato tots are a comforting frozen food that are beloved by kids and adults alike. Whether you pop some in the microwave for a quick and easy side dish or heat them up in the oven and pile them with cheesy toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crunchy, golden treats are more versatile than you might think (tot-topped casserole, anyone?). No matter how you prepare them, they’re a breeze to make and sure to be enjoyed.

One of our favorite ways to use them? In this version of tot-chos (tater tot nachos!). Molly borrows flavors inspired by elote, the Mexican street corn that's covered in mayo, chili powder, Cotija and lime to create something new—and just as crave-worthy. The dish is super easy and packed with a ton of bold, vibrant flavors to make each bite even more memorable than the last.

If you love chicken and waffles, you will absolutely swoon over this savory take on the classic dish. Instead of sweet, doughy waffles, this recipe uses frozen tater tots that get pressed into a waffle shape before being drizzled with hot sauce and honey. Top it all off with crispy chicken for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch or dinner.

This heartwarming dish is a one-pot-wonder—it’s packed with filling ingredients like ground pork shoulder and root vegetables, all of which get topped off with crispy tater tots. The comforting bowl of soul food is full of flavor from ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, kaffir lime and red curry paste. For an extra-crispy topping, be sure to pop this hot dish under the broiler for five minutes before serving.

This recipe takes your game day sliders to the next level by swapping in tater tots instead of classic buns. The result is a crunchy, crispy layer that’s salty and irresistible. Layer them with your favorite sandwich fixin’s and serve with ketchup, mayo or mustard for dipping.