In single layer: Add tater tots in an air fryer basket. Spread them in a single layer.
Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes (10 mins + Shake + 5 mins).Soft (yet cooked): 8 minutesJust crispy (yet soft): 10 minutesSuper Crispy: 15 minutes
Notes
Make sure that tater tots are in a single layer to make them perfectly crispy and even browning. Over-crowned tots make them soft and soggy.
Be sure to shake the basket at least once while they are cooking, so they don’t stick to each other. Also, it allows even browning all around.
No need to preheat the air fryer. I have tried both ways and I find there is no point in preheating the air fryer.
Take the cooking time as a guide and use your judgment. Because different brands of air fryers behave slightly differently, it may vary for 1-2 minutes more or less. So once you know how much time it takes in your air fryer and you go from there.