Sweet Potato Tots

Sometimes, all you want is a snack that’s crispy, warm, and just a little bit addictive — and that’s exactly what you get with Sweet Potato Tots. These little bites of golden goodness are packed with sweet, earthy flavor, have just the right amount of crunch, and are way easier to make than you’d think. Whether you’re snacking, meal prepping, or serving them up at your next get-together, these tots are always a hit.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came about on a lazy Sunday, with a lone sweet potato sitting on the counter and not a lot of motivation to make anything fancy. The craving for something crunchy and comforting led to a little experimenting, a little shredding, and finally, a tray of crispy, oven-baked sweet potato tots that disappeared almost immediately. Since then, it’s become a staple for snacking and side dishes alike.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Sweet potato tots are a fun twist on the classic tater tot, which originally rose to fame in the 1950s thanks to clever use of leftover potato scraps. This version is a little healthier, a little sweeter, and full of that Southern-inspired charm. Sweet potatoes have long been a staple in Southern and soul food cooking, and turning them into crispy tots is a modern, family-friendly take that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Tots

These little guys are as satisfying as they are simple. Here’s what makes them a game-changer:

Versatile: Serve as a snack, side dish, or even a party appetizer.

Budget-Friendly: Made with just a few inexpensive pantry staples.

Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and a straightforward process.

Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or cheese to make them your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: Great for picky eaters, kids, and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and freeze them for fast future meals.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want to make your tots crispier, tastier, and easier to roll? Here’s how:

• Squeeze out excess moisture from the sweet potatoes to keep them crispy.
• Chill the mixture before shaping for easier handling.
• Use a cookie scoop to portion evenly and keep tots uniform.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy removal and no sticking.
• Flip halfway through baking for even browning on all sides.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Not much needed here, but a few basics will make the job smoother:

Box Grater or Food Processor: To shred the sweet potatoes.

Mixing Bowl: To combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Sheet Pan: For baking the tots to crispy perfection.

Parchment Paper: Keeps cleanup simple and tots from sticking.

Spoon or Cookie Scoop: Helps with uniform shaping.

Ingredients in Sweet Potato Tots

These simple ingredients work together for a balanced, savory-sweet flavor and perfectly crispy texture.

1. Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and shredded. The star of the show — sweet, hearty, and delicious.
2. Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup. Gives the tots structure and light crispiness.
3. Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated. Adds a salty, nutty flavor boost.
4. Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Brings in savory depth.
5. Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a mellow sweetness.
6. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances flavor throughout.
7. Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. Adds just a hint of warmth.
8. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Helps crisp up the exterior while baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Want to switch things up or work with what you’ve got?

Panko Breadcrumbs: Use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Parmesan Cheese: Swap with shredded cheddar or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or melted butter.

Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic works too — use about 1 clove.

Sweet Potatoes: Try purple or white sweet potatoes for variety.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet, fiber-rich, and packed with nutrients like vitamin A, they’re a healthier twist on the classic tot.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Their airy texture makes for a light, crisp bite without deep frying.

Instructions for Making Sweet Potato Tots

Here’s how to turn humble sweet potatoes into irresistible little nuggets of crispy goodness:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix shredded sweet potatoes with panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined, then drizzle in olive oil and mix again.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place the lined sheet pan nearby for easy access once tots are shaped.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into small cylinders or oval-shaped tots. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tots are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Optional: sprinkle with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, sriracha mayo, or even ketchup.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These tots deliver the best of both worlds — tender inside, crisp outside. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes plays beautifully with the salty cheese and savory spices, while the panko keeps the exterior light and crunchy. It’s a snack that tastes just as good as it feels in your mouth.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra pointers to make these even better:

• Chill the mix for 10 minutes before shaping to help it hold.
• Spray the tops of the tots with oil for extra crispness.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for later.

What to Avoid

Keep your tots on point by avoiding these missteps:

• Skipping the parchment — they’ll stick and break.
• Using wet sweet potatoes — squeeze out moisture first.
• Overbaking — they can dry out fast, so keep an eye on color.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Sweet Potato Tots are freezer-friendly and reheat like a dream. Shape and freeze unbaked tots in a single layer, then transfer to a bag once solid. When ready to bake, no need to thaw — just add a few extra minutes in the oven. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crisp.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Tots

Serve these up as a side dish with burgers or sandwiches, or enjoy them solo as a snack with dipping sauces. They also make a great base for a tot-nacho situation — pile them with black beans, cheese, salsa, and avocado for a fun twist.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let leftovers go to waste — here’s how to reimagine them:

• Chop and toss into a salad bowl for texture and warmth.
• Use them in breakfast burritos or hash with eggs.
• Flatten and pan-fry for mini sweet potato sliders.

Additional Tips

A few last ideas to boost flavor and presentation:

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy version.
• Sprinkle with flaky salt right after baking.
• Pair with a tangy yogurt or herb dip for contrast.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange tots on a serving board with a trio of dips, sprinkled with chopped herbs and flaky salt. Serve with cocktail picks or mini forks for easy snacking at parties. A drizzle of sriracha or aioli adds both style and kick.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Sweet Potato Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy Jalapeño Tots: Mix in shredded cheese and diced jalapeños.
• Herb Tots: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme.
• Asian-Inspired Tots: Use sesame oil and soy sauce in place of olive oil and salt.
• Sweet Cinnamon Tots: Add a little brown sugar and cinnamon for a dessert-style version.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Q2: Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?

It’s optional. The peel is edible, but peeling gives a smoother texture.

Q3: Can I use leftover mashed sweet potatoes?

It’s not ideal — shredded works better for holding shape and crispness.

Q4: How do I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Q5: Can I freeze these?

Yes! Freeze before baking and bake straight from frozen.

Q6: What sauces go well with them?

Ranch, chipotle mayo, spicy ketchup, or garlic yogurt dip.

Q7: Can I add egg to help bind?

Yes, a beaten egg can help, especially if your mix is too crumbly.

Q8: Do I need to pre-cook the sweet potatoes?

Nope — raw, shredded sweet potatoes work perfectly.

Q9: What if I don’t have Parmesan?

Use nutritional yeast, cheddar, or skip for dairy-free.

Q10: Can I pan-fry instead?

Yes, fry in a little oil over medium heat until browned and crisp.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Tots are one of those recipes that feels like a little victory — simple to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly snackable. Whether you’re baking a batch for yourself, your family, or a crowd, these tots bring the crunch, the comfort, and the kind of joy only crispy finger food can. Give them a try — they’ll disappear faster than you expect.

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