Sweet Potato Tots
Sweet, crispy, and oh-so-delicious, Sweet Potato Tots are the perfect twist on a classic snack. Imagine biting into a golden, fluffy morsel slightly crispy on the outside while soft on the inside, each bite bursting with flavor. These little gems take everything you love about regular tater tots and elevate it with the natural sweetness of fresh sweet potatoes. With just the right balance of seasoning, they’re not just a side dish; they’re a delightful snack that can elevate any meal or gathering.
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I still remember the first time I made Sweet Potato Tots for a cozy movie night with friends. We were gearing up for a long binge-watch, and I wanted something that would satisfy the cravings without sacrificing taste or health. These beauties were an instant hit, and needless to say, they vanished faster than I could prepare another batch! If you’re looking for something that’s simple to whip up, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, then look no further. You truly need to try making Sweet Potato Tots at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 45 minutes, they make for an easy side or snack any night.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and spices creates a taste that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Their beautiful golden color and fun shape make them a hit at parties and gatherings.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even a breakfast treat—you’ll find any occasion to enjoy them!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets; just substitute with your favorite gluten-free flour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lb peeled sweet potatoes: Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any that are bruised or soft.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps bind the Sweet Potato Tots together. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A staple in many recipes, this gives a lovely aromatic depth!
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Herbaceous and slightly peppery, oregano brings a fresh contrast.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This adds moisture and aids in achieving that perfect crispiness. Feel free to use coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Salt to taste: Elevates all the flavors. Always taste and adjust according to your preference.
- Flaky sea salt for garnish: A sprinkle on top gives a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Tots
Preheat your oven: Begin your journey by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is crucial for getting those tots crispy.
Boil the sweet potatoes: Fill a large pot with about 4 cups of water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add the peeled sweet potatoes and let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re about two-thirds cooked. You want them tender but not fully soft, so keep an eye on the clock!
Grate the potatoes: Once boiled, drain the sweet potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Grab a box grater or a food processor and grate the sweet potatoes into a large bowl, allowing them to form delicate shreds.
Combine ingredients: Add the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, a sprinkle of salt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the grated sweet potatoes. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should feel slightly sticky—it’s what helps shape the tots!
Shape the tots: Using a tablespoon scoop or your hands, form small tater tot shapes from the mixture and place them neatly on your lined baking sheet. Don’t worry about perfection; they’re homemade, after all!
Brush with oil: Lightly brush the tops of the shaped tater tots with the remaining olive oil. This will help them achieve that wonderful golden color as they bake.
Bake the tots: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until you see the edges starting to turn golden brown, then flip each tater tot gently with a spatula. Bake for another 15 minutes, watching closely until they are golden and crisp on the outside.
Cool slightly: Once your Sweet Potato Tots are beautifully browned, allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. This cooling time will help them hold their shape and crispiness.
Storing & Reheating
To store Sweet Potato Tots, they can be placed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, pop them back in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Just remember they might not be as crisp as fresh, but you can refresh their texture by giving them a little mist of oil before reheating.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes in boiling water; they should be just underdone before you grate them.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour until you can handle it without sticking too much.
- Consider serving them with dips like spicy mayo or your favorite ranch for an extra flavor kick.
- Make them ahead of time by shaping the tots and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Experiment with spices! Smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can give a pleasant kick.
It’s easy to see why these Sweet Potato Tots have become a staple in my kitchen. Not only are they simple to make, but they also provide a delicious way to satisfy those snack-time cravings without feeling guilty. Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing a family meal, or just treating yourself, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Give it a go and encourage yourself to add your creative twists or dips—you might just create a new family favorite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Tots without flour?
Absolutely! You can use alternative binding agents such as mashed avocado or even beaten egg to help the mixture hold its shape.
What do I serve with Sweet Potato Tots?
They’re perfect as a snack on their own, but you could also serve them with a side of ketchup, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Can I bake the tots in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the tots ahead of time, refrigerate them for up to a day, and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
How do I know when the Sweet Potato Tots are done baking?
They’re ready to come out of the oven when they are golden brown and crisp, and you can hear a satisfying crunch when you gently tap them.
PrintMore Desserts & Appetizers Recipes
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📖 Recipe Card
Sweet Potato Tots
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sweet Potato Tots are a tasty treat that combines irresistible flavor with simple preparation. Enjoy these crunchy bites made from fresh sweet potatoes, perfect for a quick snack or a wholesome side dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lb peeled sweet potatoes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt to taste
- flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Fill a large pot with about 4 cups of water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, carefully add the peeled sweet potatoes and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they are about two-thirds cooked.
- Remove the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly, then grate them into a large bowl.
Notes
For the best flavor, choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes.
Brushing the tots with olive oil helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
