When I first swapped out traditional tater tots for these air-fried sweet potato versions, I felt a wave of nostalgia intermixed with excitement. The moment I opened the air fryer and was greeted with the crunchy sound that hinted at the deliciousness to come, my heart raced. These Crispy Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots are the perfect solution for those of us craving a comforting snack, but who also want to embrace healthier eating. Imagine the sweet, earthy flavor of sweet potatoes enveloped in a satisfyingly crispy shell—all while being kinder to your waistline with far less oil than their deep-fried cousins.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish at dinner or as a go-to game day snack, these vibrant tots promise to delight your taste buds and keep the fast-food boredom at bay. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that guarantees not just flavor, but also a nourishing twist on a beloved classic!
Why are these Sweet Potato Tots a must-try?
Crispy, golden perfection: Each bite delivers a delightful crunch that’s hard to resist!
Healthier alternative: Enjoy the flavors of comfort food without the guilt, thanks to less oil.
Nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins and fiber, sweet potatoes elevate your snacking game.
Easy to make: Quick preparation and cooking times mean you can satisfy cravings in no time!
Versatile delight: Perfect as a side, snack, or party appetizer, these tots are crowd-pleasers.
Embrace a delicious, nutritious treat that everyone will love!
Sweet Potato Tots Ingredients
For the Tots
• Sweet Potatoes – Use 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds) for the perfect blend of natural sweetness and nutrients.
• Olive Oil – This is key for achieving that delightful crispiness; feel free to swap it with avocado oil if preferred.
• Cornstarch – Essential for binding and crisping the tots; don’t skip this ingredient for optimal texture.
• Salt – Adjust to taste for enhanced flavor; a little goes a long way!
• Garlic Powder – Adds a delicious depth of flavor; you can use fresh minced garlic for a more aromatic touch.
• Paprika – Gives a mild earthy flavor and vibrant color; substitute with chili powder if you prefer some heat.
• Onion Powder – Contributes savory notes; this can be omitted if you want a more subtle taste.
• Cooking Spray – A light mist ensures a non-stick surface in the air fryer for perfectly cooked sweet potato tots.
These irresistible Sweet Potato Tots present a nutrient-dense option for satisfying cravings, offering a wholesome twist on your usual snacks!
How to Make Sweet Potato Tots
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Prep Sweet Potatoes: Start by placing unpeeled sweet potatoes in a pot of water. Boil for about 15 minutes until they are tender but not mushy, then drain and let them cool.
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Grate Potatoes: Once cooled, peel the sweet potatoes and grate them into a large bowl using a box grater or food processor, ensuring a fine texture that binds well.
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Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the grated sweet potatoes, add olive oil, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Mix until everything is well combined for an even distribution of flavors.
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Shape Tots: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a 1-inch cylinder. Continue until all the mixture is shaped into delightful little tots.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure a crispy finish.
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Cook Tots: Arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer, mist them with a light cooking spray. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
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Serve: Enjoy your sweet potato tots immediately, paired with your favorite dipping sauce for an exciting flavor boost!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Tots
Fridge: Store cooked sweet potato tots in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy again!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked sweet potato tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, air fry frozen tots at 375°F for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes until crispy again.
Avoid Spoilage: Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent moisture from making the sweet potato tots soggy.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Tots
- Perfect Boil: Ensure sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy after boiling; overcooking can lead to soggy tots.
- Consistent Texture: If your mixture seems too moist, add a touch more cornstarch—this will help bind the sweet potato tots perfectly.
- Batch Cooking: Keep uncooked tots warm in a low oven while you air-fry in batches, ensuring they all stay crispy when served.
- Spacing Matters: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; giving each tot room to breathe is key to achieving that enviable crunch.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your mixture before shaping; adjust salt and spices as desired for maximum flavor.
Enjoy creating these delicious sweet potato tots with confidence!
Sweet Potato Tots Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful tater tots and make them your own!
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Classic Potato: Swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for an equally tasty, traditional take on tater tots.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a flavor bomb that brings the heat!
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese, like cheddar or vegan cheese, for a rich, gooey twist that’s hard to resist.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or rosemary for a fragrant and vibrant flavor boost.
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Onion Boost: Replace onion powder with sautéed onions or shallots for a deeper, savory flavor that complements the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the mixture for a delightful crunch and added nutritional value.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey over the finished tots for a delicious sweet-salty combination.
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Dipping Options: Pair these tots with various dipping sauces such as yogurt-based ranch, spicy aioli, or a zesty salsa for diverse flavor profiles.
Let your taste buds explore these delicious options!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Tots?
Elevate your meal with the perfect accompaniments that enhance the delightful crunch and sweet flavor of these crispy bites.
- Classic Burgers: The sweetness of the tots pairs beautifully with savory beef or veggie burgers, creating a balanced plate.
- Creamy Dips: Opt for guacamole or spicy salsa; they add a fresh and zesty contrast that makes each tot even tastier.
- Fresh Salad: A crunchy side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens up your plate and adds a nutritious element.
- Spicy Wings: For game days or gatherings, serve alongside spicy chicken wings for a flavorful feast that everyone will love.
- Charcuterie Board: Incorporate them into a lively charcuterie spread; the sweet potato tots add color and a delightful crunch amongst meats and cheeses.
- Grilled Veggies: Pair with grilled seasonal vegetables for a colorful and healthy contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Herb-Infused Quinoa: The nutty flavor of quinoa tossed with fresh herbs complements the sweetness of the tots, adding depth to your dish.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refresh your palate with a homemade lemonade or iced tea, balancing the savory goodness of your meal with a citrusy zing.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and shape the tots up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe, cover the shaped tots with plastic wrap, and refrigerate to keep them fresh and prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the tots straight from the fridge, allowing a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy delicious, guilt-free snacks with minimal effort!
Sweet Potato Tots Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from any dark spots or blemishes. Generally, larger sweet potatoes will yield more flesh for your tots, so aim for about 2 pounds total.
How should I store leftover sweet potato tots?
Storing cooked sweet potato tots is easy! Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to keep them crispy and fresh for your next snack!
Can I freeze sweet potato tots?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! To do so, lay the uncooked sweet potato tots on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, approximately 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can last up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bag for easy access!
What if my tater tots are too wet or sticky?
No problem! If your mixture feels too sticky or wet, simply sprinkle in a bit more cornstarch, about a tablespoon at a time, until you get a nice, moldable consistency. This will help bind the ingredients together and ensure that your tots hold their shape while cooking.
Are sweet potato tots safe for my pet?
It’s best to avoid feeding sweet potato tots to your pets. While sweet potatoes are safe in moderation for dogs, the seasonings and potential additives in the tots (like onion powder) can be harmful to them. Always prepare pet-friendly treats separately!
How can I ensure my tater tots are crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this prevents steam from getting trapped and keeps the tots crispy. Mist them lightly with cooking spray before cooking and make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning!
Crispy Sweet Potato Tots: A Guilt-Free Snack Upgrade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Sweet Potatoes: Place unpeeled sweet potatoes in a pot of water and boil for about 15 minutes until tender but not mushy; then drain and let cool.
- Grate Potatoes: Peel and grate the sweet potatoes into a bowl using a box grater or food processor.
- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl, add olive oil, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder; mix well.
- Shape Tots: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a 1-inch cylinder; continue until all are shaped.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket.
- Cook Tots: Arrange the tots in a single layer, mist with cooking spray, and cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately, paired with your favorite dipping sauce.