Name: Sweet Potato Tots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
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

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Sweet Potato Tots are a delightful twist on the classic tater tot. They boast a crispy exterior with a soft, sweet interior, offering a satisfying combination that’s hard to resist. These small bites are not just stunning on a plate but also versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, side dish, or even as a breakfast delight. If you’ve ever found yourself wandering down the frozen food aisle, wondering if there was a more wholesome alternative to store-bought tots, your search will end here! This recipe not only shines in flavor but is also budget-friendly and easy to whip up.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Sweet Potato Tots
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Sweet Potato Tots

I first stumbled upon the idea of making Sweet Potato Tots during a potluck. I was looking for something that would please the crowd but needed to be easy enough to prepare in a hurry. When I brought out my homemade tots, they disappeared in minutes, with everyone asking for the recipe. This simple approach transforms the humble sweet potato into a star dish that will have your family and friends raving about it. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can have these tots ready in just about an hour, making them a perfect go-to when cravings hit.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet potatoes combined with garlic and herbs create a wonderful, savory flavor that is utterly delicious.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Their golden-brown hue and bite-size shape make them both fun and attractive on any plate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for snacking, as a side dish for dinner, or even as a fun brunch item—you’ll find every excuse to enjoy them.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a suitable alternative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lb peeled sweet potatoes: Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Look for those that feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin.
3 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps bind the tots together. If you’re gluten-free, try almond or coconut flour as a substitute.
1 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor. Smoked paprika can also be a great twist!
1 tsp garlic powder: A must for a savory kick. Fresh minced garlic can be used if you prefer a bolder flavor.
1 tsp dried oregano: This herb brings an aromatic touch to the tots. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil.
1 tbsp olive oil: It adds moisture and a hint of richness. You can use melted coconut oil or avocado oil as alternatives.
Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing all the wonderful flavors.
Flaky sea salt for garnish: Adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor on top!

How to Make Sweet Potato Tots

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Boil Sweet Potatoes: 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. You want them tender, but not falling apart.

Cool and Grate: After boiling, remove the sweet potatoes from the pot and let them cool slightly. Once manageable, grate them into a large bowl using a box grater or a food processor.

Mix Ingredients: To the grated sweet potatoes, add 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. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the flour is evenly distributed for good binding.

Shape Tater Tots: Using a tablespoon scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into small tater tot forms. Arrange them neatly on the lined baking sheet. This is where you can have some fun with the shapes—make them as uniform or as quirky as you like!

Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the shaped tater tots with any remaining olive oil. This step enhances crispiness when baking.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Once that timer goes off, carefully flip each tater tot using a spatula and bake for an additional 15 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. Take a moment to enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Cool and Serve: Finally, allow the tater tots to cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with flaky sea salt for that extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, place the cooled Sweet Potato Tots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 3 days. If you want to make a big batch, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the tots in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. They may lose a little of that crispness, but a quick blast in a hot oven will refresh them beautifully.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes; you want them tender but not mushy to make shaping easier.
If your mixture feels too wet, add a touch more flour to help it hold together better.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Make them ahead of time! You can prep and shape the tots, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs—rosemary or thyme can offer a delicious twist.

Sweet Potato Tots are not just a fantastic snack; they serve as a delightful way to enjoy healthy ingredients in a fun form. With their crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior, they bring together simple flavors that excite the palate. I encourage you to experiment with spices and herbs to make this recipe truly your own. Enjoy these delightful bites with friends and family, and watch them vanish in no time!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these Sweet Potato Tots ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, shape the tots, and refrigerate them for a day or two before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

How can I make these tots spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference and even serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.

Can I freeze leftover Sweet Potato Tots?

Yes, you can! After baking, let them cool completely on a baking sheet, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them into a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen!

What can I serve with Sweet Potato Tots?

These tots are versatile! Pair them with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or a spicy aioli for a fabulous snack. They also make a wonderful side dish for burgers or salads—perfect for any mealtime!

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