Smashed Tater Tots

Introduction

Smashed Tater Tots are the ultimate comfort food, offering the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. This fun twist on traditional tater tots elevates them by smashing them before baking, creating a golden, crunchy crust while keeping the soft, savory potato center intact. Whether you’re snacking, serving as a side dish, or whipping them up as a party appetizer, these tots are sure to be a hit!

I remember the first time I made these for a casual get-together, and they disappeared so quickly—it was clear that everyone loved them! What’s great about Smashed Tater Tots is how simple they are to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can turn humble potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s crispy, fluffy, and full of flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion, and you’ll definitely find yourself reaching for seconds!

Perfect for:

• Movie night snacks
• Family dinners
• Casual gatherings
• Finger foods for parties
• Potato lovers

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Tater Tots

Here’s why Smashed Tater Tots will become your go-to snack:

• Crispy and Crunchy: The smashing process ensures each tot has an irresistible crispy exterior, giving you that satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Fluffy Interior: Despite the crispy crust, the inside of each tot remains soft and fluffy, creating the perfect texture contrast.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic ingredients, making this a quick and easy snack or side dish to prepare.
• Customizable: Feel free to add seasonings, herbs, or even cheese to personalize the flavor.
• Fun to Make: The smashing step is a fun way to get kids (and adults) involved in the kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Smashed Tater Tots:

• 2 pounds small Yukon gold potatoes (or any waxy potato)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for this recipe because of their creamy, waxy texture, which helps the tots hold their shape while still being soft inside.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil helps create that beautiful golden crust and adds a rich, savory flavor.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give the tots a flavorful, savory depth that perfectly complements the potatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings elevate the flavor of the potatoes and bring out their natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Smashed Tater Tots:

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but still firm.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes until they’re safe to handle.

Smash and Season:

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
4. Smash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, gently press down on each potato with the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, smashing them into a flat disc. Be sure not to press too hard; you want them to stay intact but flattened.
5. Season the Potatoes: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss them gently to coat all sides in the seasoning and oil.

Bake the Tater Tots:

6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the smashed potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. You can flip the tots halfway through baking for extra crispiness, if desired.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if using. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

How to Serve Smashed Tater Tots

Smashed Tater Tots are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve these tots with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
• As a Side Dish: Pair them with your favorite main dish like burgers, roasted chicken, or grilled meats for a delicious and satisfying meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them at parties or gatherings as a fun finger food. They’re perfect for sharing!
• Loaded Tots: For an indulgent twist, top them with melted cheese, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits for loaded smashed tater tots.

Additional Tips for Smashed Tater Tots

Here are some tips to ensure your Smashed Tater Tots come out perfectly every time:

• Use Waxy Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes or other waxy potatoes hold their shape well and have a creamy texture when smashed.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes when boiling them, or they might become too soft and mushy to hold their shape during smashing.
• Chill the Potatoes: If you have time, you can chill the boiled potatoes in the fridge for about 30 minutes before smashing them. This helps them hold their shape better while baking.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings—smashed potatoes benefit from a good amount of flavor to enhance their taste.
• Crisp Them Up: If you want extra-crispy tots, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

Recipe Variations for Smashed Tater Tots

Here are 5 variations you can try for Smashed Tater Tots:

• Cheesy Smashed Tater Tots: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, on top of the tots before baking for a cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth version.
• Spicy Smashed Tater Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Smashed Tater Tots: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
• Bacon and Cheddar Smashed Tater Tots: Top your smashed tots with crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese before baking.
• Vegan Smashed Tater Tots: Omit the cheese and replace the butter with olive oil for a fully plant-based version.

Freezing and Storage for Smashed Tater Tots

• Freezing: You can freeze these smashed tots before or after baking. To freeze before baking, arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Leftover smashed tots can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Special Equipment for Smashed Tater Tots

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Smashed Tater Tots easier:

• Potato Masher or Glass: A potato masher or glass will help you smash the potatoes evenly.
• Baking Sheet: Use a parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheet for easy cleanup and to ensure your tots crisp up evenly.
• Oven Thermometer: If you’re unsure about your oven’s temperature, an oven thermometer will help ensure accurate baking conditions.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: These prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy finish on the tots.

Frequently Asked Questions for Smashed Tater Tots

1. Can I make these in advance?
   Yes, you can boil the potatoes in advance, smash them, and then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just season and bake when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
   Yes, but Yukon Gold potatoes work better for this recipe because they hold their shape and have a creamier texture. Russets can be a bit too starchy.
3. Can I make these tots in an air fryer?
   Yes, air frying is a great option! Cook them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for extra crispiness.
4. Can I add cheese to the smashed potatoes?
   Yes, you can add shredded cheese on top of the smashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy version.
5. Can I use frozen tater tots for this recipe?
   Yes, if you want to speed up the process, you can use store-bought frozen tater tots and smash them before baking.

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Conclusion

Smashed Tater Tots are a playful and delicious twist on a beloved classic, giving you the perfect balance of crispy crunch and fluffy interior. These tots are incredibly versatile, making them perfect as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer. With just a handful of ingredients and endless possibilities for customization, you can get creative by adding your favorite flavors or toppings.

Whether you’re serving them at a casual gathering or enjoying them solo, these tots are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen—crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside!

I’d love to see your Smashed Tater Tots in action! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see how they turn out. Happy cooking!