Sweet Potato Tots
Sweet Potato Tots are the ultimate combination of flavor, texture, and comfort wrapped into bite-sized goodness. Picture this: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with a hint of sweetness and those warm spices that dance on your palate. They are perfect for snacking, a delightful side dish, or even a fun addition to your brunch spread. What truly makes this dish shine is its ability to elevate the humble sweet potato – a staple in my kitchen that I absolutely adore.
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The first time I made Sweet Potato Tots, I was captivated by how something so simple could transform into something so addictive. With a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of deliciously crispy tots that can easily rival any restaurant or store-bought version. They’re easy on the wallet, quick to whip up, and incredibly satisfying. Trust me, you’ll be irresistibly drawn to make them again and again. I can’t wait for you to try them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in about an hour, these tots are perfect for busy days or spontaneous snacks.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices like paprika and garlic powder creates a mouthwatering explosion of taste.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown color and cute shape make them a hit wherever you serve them.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for snack time, a side dish at dinner, or a fun party appetizer.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to be gluten-free by using alternative flours.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lb peeled sweet potatoes: Choose firm, fresh ones for optimal sweetness and flavor. Remember, the fresher the potatoes, the tastier your tots!
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: This acts as a binder. You could substitute it with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a lovely smoky flavor and bright color. Smoked paprika can intensify the taste if you desire.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: For a subtle, savory hint that enhances the sweet potatoes beautifully. Fresh garlic works too, but be sure to mince it finely.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy undertone to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A touch of healthy fat that helps the tots crisp up nicely in the oven. You can use vegetable oil if preferred.
- Salt to taste: Essential for elevating the overall flavors of the dish. Don’t forget to have some flaky sea salt for that final garnish.
How to Make Sweet Potato Tots
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup and ensures even cooking.
Boil the 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 fully soft.
Grate the Sweet Potatoes: Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, grate them into a large bowl using a box grater. This gives the tots that fun texture we all love.
Mix the 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 until everything is well combined – the mixture should be moist but still hold its shape.
Shape the Tater Tots: Using a tablespoon scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into small tater tot forms. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one for even cooking.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the tater tots with the remaining olive oil. This adds a lovely crispiness during baking and enhances the flavor.
Bake the Tots: Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Afterward, flip each tater tot with a spatula and bake for another 15 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. You’ll know they’re done when they look irresistibly crunchy and fragrant.
Cool and Serve: Allow the tater tots to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, ideally with a tasty dipping sauce like ketchup or aioli.

Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet Potato Tots at room temperature for up to two days, or keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Do remember that freezing may slightly change the texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Be careful not to overcook the sweet potatoes in boiling water; you just want them tender enough to grate.
- For added flavor, feel free to mix in some grated cheese or chopped green onions into the mixture before shaping.
- If you find your mixture too wet, just add a touch more flour until it holds together.
- Experiment with spices – a pinch of cayenne could add some heat, or you can play with Italian seasoning to give it a different twist.
- Make a bigger batch and freeze some for those busy nights when you want a quick snack!
Sweet Potato Tots are such a comforting and flavorful dish that you’ll wonder how you lived without them before. Their versatility makes them suitable for different occasions, whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a delicious snack for yourself. Plus, making these crispy beauties at home means you know exactly what goes into them — no preservatives and all the deliciousness you desire. Don’t wait; it’s time to gather your ingredients and start this delightful culinary adventure!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use purple sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Purple sweet potatoes can be a fantastic substitution. They have a slightly different flavor profile, but their vibrant color will make your tots even more eye-catching. Just follow the same cooking and preparation methods as you would with regular sweet potatoes.
How can I make these sweet potato tots vegan?
To make vegan Sweet Potato Tots, simply replace the olive oil with vegetable oil or another plant-based oil. Since the recipe does not contain eggs, you’re already halfway there! The binding role of flour works perfectly without eggs.
Can I pre-make the tater tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tater tots in advance and flash freeze them before baking. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw — just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dipping sauces go well with sweet potato tots?
Sweet Potato Tots pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces! Classic ketchup is always a hit, but you can also enjoy them with spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or even a tangy honey mustard.
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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: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Sweet Potato Tots are a delightful treat with their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful inside. With only a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect as a healthy snack or a side for your meals. Made with sweet potatoes and spices, these tots are a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic homemade option.
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
Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
Brush the tots with olive oil before baking for extra crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





