Sure! Here’s your complete write-up for Homemade Potato Tots: A Simple Appetizer Recipe Everyone Will Love, following your requested format and structure:
Homemade Potato Tots: A Simple Appetizer Recipe Everyone Will Love
Potato tots are the kind of comfort food that never go out of style. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for dipping into a creamy sauce, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just looking for a cozy snack at home, this simple, from-scratch recipe will elevate your appetizer game.
Made with just a few pantry staples, these potato dumplings are easy to whip up and totally customizable.
Pair them with a rich, cheesy garlic sauce and you’ve got a warm, satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dig into how you can make your own homemade potato tots with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the balls:3 medium potatoes, peeledA pinch of saltCornstarch60g (4 tablespoons)For the sauce:Butter60 g (¼ cup)3 cloves garlic,
choppedAll purpose flour15 g (1 tablespoon)Milk250 ml (1 cup)A pinch of saltPaprika½ teaspoonMozzarella cheese40g (¼ cup)2 slices of cheeseHow to Make Potato DumplingsRead more on next page
Instructions
Start by boiling the peeled potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender. Once cooked, drain and let them cool slightly before mashing until smooth.
Transfer the mashed potatoes into a bowl and add a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in the cornstarch until the dough comes together and can hold its shape when formed into small balls.
Form the dough into bite-sized balls or oval-shaped tots. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up before frying.
In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the potato balls in batches until they are golden and crispy. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
To make the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Stir in the flour and cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in the milk to create a smooth mixture. Add salt and paprika, then let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
Stir in the mozzarella and cheese slices until melted and fully incorporated. Pour the warm sauce over the crispy potato tots or serve on the side for dipping.
How to Make Potato Dumplings
Start with high-starch potatoes like russet or Yukon gold, which mash well and give a fluffy texture. Once mashed, adding cornstarch helps give structure, so the tots hold together while frying.
Chilling the formed tots is an important step that makes frying easier and helps them keep their shape. This prevents them from falling apart in the oil.
Frying at the right temperature ensures they get crispy without becoming greasy. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
For the sauce, make a simple roux with butter and flour before whisking in the milk. This ensures the sauce has a smooth, rich consistency.
Garlic adds depth to the flavor, and the paprika gives a gentle smoky warmth that balances the richness of the cheese.
Using both shredded mozzarella and sliced cheese gives a nice combination of gooey texture and sharp flavor in the sauce.
Serve immediately while hot for the best experience. The crispiness of the tots paired with the melty sauce is unbeatable.
Variations
Try mixing some grated cheese or chopped herbs directly into the potato mixture for a cheesy herb version. This adds extra flavor and color to the dumplings.
Add finely chopped onions, green chilies, or even bacon bits to the potato mix for a spicier, more savory version.
You can bake the tots instead of frying if you’re looking for a healthier version. Just brush with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crisp.
Swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack to change up the flavor of the sauce.
Serve with other dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard for variety.
Make it a meal by serving the tots on a bed of greens, or stuff them into a wrap with veggies and extra sauce.
For a fun twist, shape the tots into small patties and use them as sliders with a dollop of the cheese sauce and your choice of toppings.
Tips
Use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them—just make sure they’re not too wet or seasoned.
Don’t skip chilling the tots before frying. It really helps them hold up and keeps them from crumbling in the oil.
When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking.
If your dough feels too wet, add a little more cornstarch until it holds its shape without being sticky.
To make the sauce extra silky, strain it before serving, especially if you want a restaurant-style finish.
Grate the garlic finely or use a garlic press for a smoother texture in the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness.
Conclusion
These homemade potato tots are a delightful blend of crispy, fluffy, and cheesy. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Pair them with a creamy garlic cheese sauce, and you have a winning appetizer for any occasion.
With so many ways to customize and serve them, this recipe is one you’ll want to come back to again and again. So next time you’re craving a warm, comforting snack, give these potato dumplings a try—you won’t be disappointed.
Let me know if you’d like a printable or visual version!