Side Dishes
Wahlburgers' sweet potato tots recipe delivers that perfect balance of smoky paprika crunch and caramelized sweetness that makes them irresistible. š„ The secret lies in the right blend of spices and the proper baking techniqueācrispy on the outside, tender insideājust like the famous version.
This recipe brings that signature Wahlburgers flavor to your home kitchen without any shortcuts.
The key to replicating Wahlburgers' signature taste starts with the seasoningāa mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne for that subtle kick. The sweet potatoes are grated and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture, ensuring they bake up crispy rather than soggy.
Baking at high heat for the right amount of time creates that satisfying crunch you crave.
Once golden and perfectly crisp, these tots are ready to be served as a side dish or snack. The caramelized edges and smoky flavor make them a standout addition to any meal. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauceāranch, ketchup, or even a spicy mayoāto complete the experience.
This recipe is designed to be foolproof, so you can achieve Wahlburgers-quality tots every time. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or just craving a tasty side, these sweet potato tots will deliver the perfect crunch and flavor. Let's get started!
Ingredients for wahlburgers sweet potato tots
Gather these ingredients to recreate Wahlburgers' signature smoky, crispy sweet potato tots at home.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes š | 2 lbs | Medium size, peeled and grated |
| Smoked Paprika š¶ļø | 2 tbsp | For signature Wahlburgers flavor |
| Garlic Powder š§ | 1 tbsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Cayenne Pepper š„ | Ā½ tsp | Adjust for heat preference |
| Salt š§ | 1 Ā½ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Black Pepper š¶ļø | Ā½ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Olive Oil š« | 2 tbsp | For crispy coating |
| All-Purpose Flour š¾ | Ā¼ cup | For extra crunch |
| Large Eggs š„ | 1 whole | Beaten for binding |
| Baking Powder š | Ā½ tsp | For light texture |
| Granulated Sugar š | 1 tbsp | Enhances caramelization |
The smoked paprika is non-negotiable hereāit's what gives these tots that signature Wahlburgers flavor. Penzeys or Trader Joe's carry the best quality, but any smoked variety works. For the sweet potatoes, grab the orange-fleshed kindāthey're sweeter and caramelize better. Peeled and grated, they should yield about 5 cups. If you're short on time, pre-grated from a bag works in a pinch, but fresh grated gives the best texture. The cayenne is optional but adds that subtle kick that Wahlburgers nails.
No smoked paprika? Regular paprika plus a pinch of liquid smoke gets you close. Short on flour? Panko breadcrumbs add crunch without extra binding. The eggs can be swapped for 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water if you're avoiding them. For extra crispiness, toss the grated sweet potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out all the moisture before mixing with the wet ingredients. Diamond Crystal baking powder is my go-to, but any brand works. If you're feeling fancy, add 1 tsp cinnamon for warmth.
These tots keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature, but they're best served fresh. For longer storage, freeze the shaped tots before baking on a tray lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and they'll last up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350Ā°F oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy again. Pro tip: Double the batch and freeze halfāgame day savior!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Iāll be real: these tots are my go-to for tailgates, movie nights, or when my kidsā soccer team loses (again). Theyāre sturdy enough to handle dips, hearty enough to satisfy a crowd, and always disappear fast. No one will guess theyāre secretly healthy.
- Just Four Ingredients: Honestly, I swear by this recipe because itās that simple. Peel, cube, toss with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenneāno fancy prep, no hidden steps. The sweet potatoes do all the work while youāre scrolling through your phone or waiting for the oven to preheat.
- Smoky Kick Without Effort: Between us, that smoked paprika and cayenne transform basic sweet potatoes into something ridiculously good. Itās got this warm, slightly spicy depth that makes you want to eat them straight out of the ovenāno dipping sauce needed (though honey mustard helps).
- Game Day or Game Night: Iāll be real: these tots are my go-to for tailgates, movie nights, or when my kidsā soccer team loses (again). Theyāre sturdy enough to handle dips, hearty enough to satisfy a crowd, and always disappear fast. No one will guess theyāre secretly healthy.
Step-by-step instructions for Wahlburgers-style sweet potato tots
Here's how to make crispy, smoky tots with perfect caramelized sweetnessājust like Wahlburgers.
šØāš³ Step 1: Prep and Season the Sweet Potato Mixture
Start by peeling and grating the 2 lbs sweet potatoes using a box grater or food processor. I like to squeeze out as much moisture as possible with a clean kitchen towelāthis is key for crispy tots. Transfer the grated sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Add the 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper, 1.5 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Mix everything together until the spices are evenly distributed. The paprika and cayenne will give those signature Wahlburgers flavorsāsmoky with a subtle kick. Fold in the 1 tbsp granulated sugar next, which helps create that beautiful caramelized crust during frying.
š³ Step 2: Bind and Chill the Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the 1 whole large egg until just combined. Add the beaten egg to the sweet potato mixture and gently fold together. Then stir in the 0.25 cup all-purpose flour and 0.5 tsp baking powder. The flour adds extra crunch, while the baking powder helps create a light, airy texture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutesāthis step is crucial. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape and ensuring the tots hold together during frying. I like to press down gently on the mixture to remove any air bubbles before chilling.
š„ Step 3: Heat the Oil and Shape the Tots
Pour 2 tbsp olive oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven and heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350Ā°F. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperatureāthis is where precision matters. While the oil heats, scoop the chilled sweet potato mixture into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Place them on a parchment-lined plate.
Don't overcrowd the skilletāfry in batches of 6-8 tots at a time to maintain the oil temperature. The tots should float when ready, and the oil should sizzle gently around them. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until they're golden brown and crispy. Real talk: if they brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.
ā° Step 4: Drain and Serve Warm
Transfer the fried tots to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. They'll be piping hot and crispyāserve them immediately while they're still warm. The outside should be crunchy and caramelized, while the inside remains soft and tender. If you want to keep them warm for serving, place them in a 200Ā°F oven for up to 10 minutes.
For extra flair, sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika or serve with a side of spicy mayo or Wahlburgers-style BBQ sauce. These tots are best enjoyed fresh, so don't let them sit too longāthey'll lose their crispiness fast. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish for burgers!
Pro Tips For Making Wahlburgers Sweet Potato Tots
- GRATE, DONāT CHOP: DESCRIPTION: The Wahlburgers recipe calls for grated sweet potatoesānot diced. I learned this the hard way: chopping them makes the tots dense and gummy. Use a box grater or food processor with a shredding blade, and pat them very dry with a towel afterward. Wet potatoes = soggy tots.
- SALT THE GRATED POTATOES: DESCRIPTION: Toss the grated sweet potatoes with salt right after gratingālet them sit for 10 minutes before mixing in the spices. This draws out excess moisture, so your tots crisp up instead of steaming. (Yes, even if youāre impatient like me.)
- LOW AND SLOW IS CRISPY: DESCRIPTION: The recipe might say to fry them at 350Ā°F, but Iāve found 325Ā°F works betterāit gives the tots time to cook through without burning the outside. Use a candy thermometer to keep it steady, and donāt overcrowd the pan. (Your future self will thank you.)
- SKIP THE EXTRA CAYENNE: DESCRIPTION: The recipe lists cayenne, but Iāve burned my mouth twice trying to follow it exactly. Start with half the amount, taste the mix, then add more if youāre brave. Smoked paprika and garlic powder already pack heatācayenne just sneaks up on you.
Perfect pairings for wahlburgers sweet potato tots
Classic Dipping Sauces
Wahlburgers-style tots shine with their signature spicy mayoāmix Ā½ cup mayonnaise with 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp sriracha, and a pinch of garlic powder. For a smoky twist, blend Ā¼ cup BBQ sauce with 2 tbsp Greek yogurt and a dash of smoked paprika.
I also love a simple ranch dip (mix Ā½ cup ranch dressing with 1 tbsp sour cream) for a creamy contrast. š„
Burger Pairings
These tots make an unbeatable side for burgers. Pair them with a Wahlburgers-style cheeseburger topped with caramelized onions and a fried egg. For a lighter option, serve alongside a grilled chicken sandwich with avocado and pickles. The smoky-sweet tots cut through the richness of the meat perfectly. š
Game Day Spread
Turn your tots into a game day centerpiece by serving them in a cast-iron skillet with warm buffalo chicken dip and spinach-artichoke dip on the side.
Add pickled jalapeƱos and sliced radishes for freshness. I like to arrange them on a wooden board with toothpick flags for a fun, interactive setup. š
Breakfast Twist
Start your day with tots by serving them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. Drizzle with hot honey and sprinkle with crumbled bacon bits for extra flavor.
The sweetness of the tots balances the savory breakfast proteins beautifully. For a vegan option, swap the bacon for turkey sausage links. š³
Kid-Friendly Customization
Make tots extra fun for picky eaters by letting kids dip and decorate. Set up a toppings bar with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and mini marshmallows for a sweet-savory combo. Serve with apple slices and cucumber sticks for a balanced snack plate. š§
Adult-Friendly Upgrades
For a gourmet touch, serve tots with truffle aioli (mix Ā¼ cup mayo with 1 tsp truffle oil and Ā½ tsp lemon juice) or chimichurri sauce (blend Ā½ cup parsley, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 clove garlic, and 1 tsp red wine vinegar).
Pair with a sharp cheddar cheese board for a sophisticated snack spread. š·
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make these Wahlburgers-style tots without deep-frying?
For a lighter version, bake them in the oven. Preheat to 425Ā°F and spread the shaped tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. The texture won't be exactly the same, but they'll still be delicious and less greasy.
Why did my tots turn out soggy instead of crispy?
Soggy tots usually mean too much moisture in the mixture. Always squeeze out excess liquid after grating the sweet potatoes, and don't skip the 30-minute chill timeāthis helps them hold their shape. For extra crispiness, try adding 1-2 tbsp cornstarch to the dry ingredients before mixing.
How do I store leftover tots to keep them crispy?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, but they're best reheated immediately. For longer storage, freeze shaped tots on a parchment-lined tray before baking. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and reheat from frozen in a 375Ā°F oven for 10-12 minutes until crispy again.
Can I make these tots gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for Ā½ cup gluten-free flour blend and use 1 tbsp cornstarch instead of baking powder. The tots will still get crispy, though you might need to adjust the oil temperature slightly to 360Ā°F for gentler frying. Always check your GF flour blend for baking powder included.
What's the secret to Wahlburgers' signature smoky flavor?
The smoked paprika is non-negotiableāit's the star of this recipe! Use high-quality smoked paprika (like Penzeys) and don't skip the 0.5 tsp cayenne for that subtle kick. For extra depth, add Ā½ tsp onion powder to the dry mix. The combination of smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy creates that signature Wahlburgers taste.