Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace. (5 minutes)

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until well combined. (2 minutes)

Place half of the thawed hash browns in a food processor. Pulse briefly, just once or twice, until most of the shreds are about 1/2-inch long. It's okay if some shreds remain longer for texture. (3 minutes)

Add the processed hash browns to the bowl with the egg mixture. Repeat with the remaining hash browns. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the potatoes are evenly coated. (5 minutes)

Divide the hash brown mixture into thirty-two equal portions, approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons each. A #40 scoop works perfectly for this step. (7 minutes)

Working over the sink or a wire rack, take one portion of the hash brown mixture and place it in the palm of your hand. Gently flatten it slightly. (2 minutes)

Place a cheese cube in the center of the flattened hash brown mixture. Carefully close your hand around the cheese, pressing and shaping the hash browns to form a short, cylindrical tot. Squeeze out any excess liquid as you go to ensure a crispy exterior. (15 minutes)

Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the tots are shaped, freeze them until they are firm and hold their shape, about 30 minutes. (30 minutes)

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep fryer, heat the peanut oil over medium heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control. (10 minutes)

Carefully fry 4 to 6 tots at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. (15 minutes)

Remove the fried tots with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. (2 minutes)

To keep the fried tots warm and crispy while you finish frying the rest, place them in a preheated 200 degrees F (95 degrees C) oven. (2 minutes)

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. Enjoy!