Crispy Sweet Potato Tots (Kid-Approved & Freezer-Friendly!)

Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko

Crunchy outside, soft inside, and packed with flavor—these sweet potato tots are a total game-changer for family meals and snacks.

If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that pleases picky eaters and grown-ups alike, these Crispy Sweet Potato Tots are it. Originally requested by my daughter Ella (who’s not always easy to please in the food department 😉), this recipe is now on repeat in our house—and I know it will be in yours too.

These tots have the perfect golden crunch, a soft sweet center, and a savory parmesan-garlic flavor that makes them seriously addictive. Plus, they’re easy to prep in batches and freeze, making them the kind of toddler-friendly, dietitian-approved snack that busy families need more of.

Why You’ll Love These Tots:

Naturally sweet, cheesy, and crave-worthy
Perfect for toddlers and picky eaters—but adults will love them too
Freezer-friendly for easy snacks or side dishes
Packed with fiber, vitamin A, and complex carbs
Customizable: add spices, switch cheese, or dip in yogurt, hummus, or ketchup

Ingredients (Makes ~15 tots)

1 large sweet potato
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free crumbs)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp chili powder or smoked paprika
Optional: drizzle of olive oil before baking (we often skip this!)

Instructions:

1. Bake the Sweet Potato

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the sweet potato on a baking tray and roast for 45–50 minutes, or until fork-tender. Let it cool completely.

2. Mash & Mix

Peel the cooled potato and mash in a bowl. Add all remaining ingredients and mix until well combined.

3. Shape the Tots

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of mixture per tot. Roll and shape into classic “tot” cylinders with your hands. Place them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake Until Golden & Crispy

Bake for 10–12 minutes, then flip and bake another 10 minutes, or until both sides are golden and crispy.

Let them cool slightly before serving—though they’re usually eaten right off the tray in our house! 😄

Dietitian Tips

Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, fiber, and naturally sweet flavor—perfect for encouraging veggie-loving toddlers.
Using Parmesan adds flavor and calcium without overwhelming salt.
These are a great make-ahead snack—just freeze after shaping or baking, then reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Serve with a side of Greek yogurt dip, guac, or classic ketchup for a balanced bite.

Make It a Meal:

Pair with a side of scrambled eggs or chicken fingers for a weeknight dinner
Toss in a lunchbox with apple slices and a cheese stick
Serve as a side to soup or sandwich for a fun lunch twist

Tried Them? Tag Me!

If you make these sweet potato tots, I want to see your creations!
Tag me on Instagram @thefoodstylistrd and show me how you serve them—lunchbox, snack board, dipped in yogurt or ketchup, you name it.