Step 1

Preheat oven to 400 F (if baking).

Step 2

Place potatoes in a large pot of cold water and bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes until softened but not completely cooked. Drain well and let cool.

Step 3

Meanwhile, sauté bacon (no cooking oil needed) in a large pot or 4 qt. Dutch oven over medium high heat until crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Save bacon fat in a bowl and chop bacon into small bits

Step 4

Shred potatoes into thin strips with a box grater. Wash off excess potato starch under cold water and drain well. Squeeze out excess water with a cheesecloth or dish towel and place shredded potato into a large mixing bowl.

Step 5

Add bacon bits, flour, mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch tater tots, and place on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 6

Cook the tater tots:Bake in the oven: Spray some cooking oil spray over the tater tots and bake in a 400F preheated oven for 25 minutes until golden brown, turning the tater tots halfway through baking. Turn the broiler on high for an additional 4-5 minutes to achieve extra crispy browned tater tots, if desired. Keep a close eye on the broiler as things can burn quickly.

Step 7

Deep fry: Fill oil about 1-inch high in a shallow saucepan or cooking pot. Heat on medium heat until sizzling hot, about 3-4 minutes. Add tater tots and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 8

Air fry: Add tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may have to cook in multiple batches). Cook at 400F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9

Serve immediately with ketchup or your favourite dipping sauce.