How to Create Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Tots: A Step-by-Step Guide
Sweet potato tots are the perfect snack that blends healthy eating with delicious flavor. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with natural sweetness. The great news? You don’t need a fryer to make them! Baking sweet potato tots is a healthier option, and with the right technique, you can achieve that desirable crunch. In this blog, we’ll guide you through creating crispy baked sweet potato tots using simple ingredients and easy steps.
Why Sweet Potato Tots?
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious powerhouse. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthier alternative to their white potato cousins. When turned into tots, they’re not only fun to eat but also make a great snack or side dish for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or cooking for your family, baked sweet potato tots are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a batch of crispy baked sweet potato tots, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
That’s it! These ingredients are easy to find and work together to give your tots great flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling your sweet potatoes and cutting them into chunks. Boil the chunks in a pot of water until they are soft enough to mash, which usually takes about 10–15 minutes. To check, poke the potatoes with a fork; if the fork slides in easily, they’re ready.
Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them into a smooth consistency. You want them mashed but not overly watery.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when molded. If it feels too soft, add a little more breadcrumbs until it firms up.
3. Shape the Tots
This is the fun part! Scoop out small portions of the sweet potato mixture (about one tablespoon each) and roll them into cylinder-like shapes using your hands. You can also shape them into small balls if you prefer a rounder look. Place each tot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece.
4. Brush with Oil
To help your tots crisp up in the oven, brush the tops lightly with olive oil. You don’t need much—just a small amount will do the trick. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.
5. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once ready, place your baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. Halfway through, gently flip each tot to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time. They should be golden and crispy on the outside but still soft on the inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once your sweet potato tots are baked to perfection, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a spicy mayo. They’re perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even packed into lunchboxes.
Tips for Extra Crispiness
- Use Panko breadcrumbs. These coarse breadcrumbs deliver a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing the tots out allows them to cook evenly and crisp up properly.
- Finish under the broiler. If your tots aren’t as crunchy as you’d like, you can turn on the oven’s broiler for 1–2 minutes right at the end. Watch them closely to avoid burning.
Variations to Try
If you want to mix things up, here are some fun variations to try:
– Spicy Sweet Potato Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the mixture for a little heat.
– Cheesy Tots: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the sweet potato mixture for gooey, cheesy treats.
– Herby Tots: Stir in finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked sweet potato tots are a simple yet satisfying snack or side dish that’s easy to customize. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with unique flavors, you’ll love how crispy and delicious they turn out. Best of all, they’re baked, not fried, which means you can enjoy them guilt-free.
So, next time you’re craving something crunchy and flavorful, skip the bagged frozen tots and make your own at home. It’s easy, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Happy cooking!
