Crispy Sweet Potato Tots with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Snack

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If you’ve ever craved something crispy and comforting yet wanted to keep it light and nutritious, crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs might just be the answer. These delightful morsels are a perfect balance between crunchy and creamy, with a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at dinner, a healthy snack for movie night, or even as an appetizer for your next gathering, these tots are sure to steal the show.

But what makes them so special? In this recipe, sweet potatoes are paired with parmesan cheese for that tangy, cheesy bite, while a crispy coating of Panko breadcrumbs adds that satisfying crunch. Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley elevate the flavor, making each bite an experience. Add in a dash of chili powder or chipotle powder for a little smoky heat, and you’ve got a side dish that’s full of flavor and texture, yet surprisingly simple to make.

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs step by step, plus some helpful tips along the way.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Sweet Potato Tots

If you’re on the lookout for a snack that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying, you’re in the right place. Here are some reasons why crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs should be your next go-to recipe:

A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

The combination of sweet potatoes, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delightful flavor that hits all the right notes. The sweetness of the potatoes is perfectly balanced by the savory and tangy flavor of parmesan. Meanwhile, the fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley contribute an aromatic, earthy quality that ties everything together.

Healthier Than Traditional Tots

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthier option than regular potatoes. They’re packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. Instead of deep frying, these tots are baked, giving them a crispy texture without the extra calories and grease.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream

Perfect for Any Occasion

These tots are versatile. You can enjoy them as a snack, serve them alongside your favorite meal, or even take them to a gathering as an appetizer. Their delicious flavor profile means they’re likely to be a hit with both adults and kids. And since they’re so easy to make, they’ll become a go-to recipe for whenever you need something quick and tasty.

A Simple Recipe with Minimal Ingredients

With just a few ingredients, you can make these crispy tots without spending hours in the kitchen. The key ingredients—sweet potatoes, parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs—are simple yet come together to create something amazing. Even though they take a bit of time to bake, the process is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced cooking techniques.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Sweet Potato Tots with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs

Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a handy list of the ingredients to make crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Sweet potatoes	4 medium	Base ingredient; provides creaminess and flavor
Parmesan cheese	1 cup	Adds tangy flavor and helps bind the mixture
Kosher salt and black pepper	To taste	For seasoning
Garlic (grated)	1 clove	Adds depth and savory flavor
Panko bread crumbs	2 cups	Creates the crispy outer layer
Chili powder or chipotle powder	2 teaspoons	Adds a smoky, spicy kick
Extra virgin olive oil	For brushing	Helps crisp up the tots and adds richness
Salted butter	4 tablespoons	Adds a rich flavor to the herb infusion
Fresh thyme leaves	2 tablespoons	Adds aromatic, earthy flavor
Fresh parsley (chopped)	1 tablespoon	Adds freshness and color
Fresh sage (chopped)	2 teaspoons	Adds a savory, aromatic note

How to Make Crispy Sweet Potato Tots with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to dive into the steps to make your crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs. Follow these easy instructions to get perfectly crispy tots every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Use a fork to prick the sweet potatoes a few times, which will help them cook evenly.
• Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they’re soft and tender when pierced with a fork.
• Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

• After the sweet potatoes have cooled, peel off the skins.
• Place the peeled sweet potatoes into a medium-sized bowl.
• Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth.
• Stir in 1 cup of parmesan cheese, 1 clove of grated garlic, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
• Mix well until everything is fully combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Panko Coating

• In a shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs with 2 teaspoons of chili powder or chipotle powder (depending on how much heat you like).
• Set aside.

Step 4: Form the Tots

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mashed sweet potato mixture and roll it into a small cylinder, about the size of a traditional tot.
• Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the rolled tots onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Once all the tots are formed, roll each one in the Panko breading mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Tots

• Brush the tots lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up as they bake.
• Place the tots in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
• After 15 minutes, flip them over and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Step 6: Prepare the Herb-Infused Butter

• While the tots are baking, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
• Add 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh sage.
• Cook for about 30 seconds until the herbs are fragrant and the butter has absorbed their flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Once the tots are done baking, drizzle the herb-infused butter over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve your crispy sweet potato tots immediately and enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and herbaceous goodness!

Tips for Perfect Crispy Sweet Potato Tots

To help you make the best crispy sweet potato tots possible, here are some helpful tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave enough space between each tot to allow air to circulate, ensuring they get crispy on all sides.
• Make Them Ahead: You can prepare the tots in advance and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to cook them, simply bake them straight from the freezer.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or chipotle powder based on your preferred spice level. You can also add a bit of paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Switch Up the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate fresh parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese can often be drier and less flavorful.

Nutritional Information for Crispy Sweet Potato Tots

If you’re curious about the nutritional value of these crispy sweet potato tots, here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving (about 4 tots):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Carbohydrates	38g
Protein	4g
Fat	10g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	400mg

These tots are not only delicious but also pack a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, thanks to the sweet potatoes. Plus, the herbs and cheese add extra flavor without too many extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these tots ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the tots and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to serve them, just bake them directly from the freezer for an extra crispy finish.
2. What can I substitute for the parmesan cheese?
   • If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for the parmesan. If you prefer a different cheese, Pecorino Romano or asiago would work well too.
3. Can I make these in an air fryer?
   • Yes, these tots can be cooked in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.
4. Are sweet potato tots healthier than regular potato tots?
   • Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that regular potatoes don’t offer. They’re also lower in glycemic index, making them a healthier choice.
5. Can I adjust the spice level?
   • Yes, you can adjust the amount of chili or chipotle powder to suit your tastes. For less heat, use a smaller amount or substitute with smoked paprika for flavor without the spice.

Conclusion: A Snack Everyone Will Enjoy

There’s no doubt that these crispy sweet potato tots with parmesan and fresh herbs are a winning dish. With their perfect balance of textures and flavors, they’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a party, or a healthy snack, these tots won’t disappoint. Easy to make, packed with nutrients, and utterly delicious, they’re a snack you’ll be craving again and again.

Why not give them a try today? You might just find that they become your new go-to snack.

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