Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots

Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots are terrific! If you have been looking for the best Copycat Version of this popular side dish, here it is, and they are amazing!

We all love SmashBurgers, they have some of the best burgers for fast food, and their sides are excellent.

I have made several versions of their burgers on my Blackstone or in my Air Fryer, and some of them are BLACKSTONE MUSHROOM SWISS SMASH BURGERS and BLACKSTONE GRIDDLE SMASH BURGERS.

Everyone’s favorite Air Fryer Recipe for Tater Tots is now being made even better by this Copycat Version of SmashBurger Tater Tots!

Try these with Smashburger sauce recipe.

This will soon become one of your favorite recipes! Air Frying is awesome! You will find that these SmashBurger Copycat Tots made in the Air Fryer go with just about anything from a simple burger to some excellent air fryer recipes, including AIR FRYER FROZEN VEGGIE BURGERS, AIR FRYER MUSHROOM & SWISS BURGERS, AIR FRYER, SMOKED GOUDA AND ONION BURGERS, and AIR FRYER CHEDDAR AND BACON BURGERS.

Easy Smash Tots Recipe

Easy Smash Tots are a delightful twist on traditional tater tots, offering a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior with an added crunch that’s irresistible. This recipe starts with your favorite frozen tater tots, taken to the next level by smashing them flat before air frying or baking to achieve maximum crispiness. The process not only enhances their texture but also increases the surface area for delicious toppings. Once smashed, they’re seasoned with a blend of spices—think garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt and pepper—to infuse them with flavor as they cook to golden perfection.

The beauty of Easy Smash Tots lies in their versatility; they can be served as a savory breakfast side, a playful appetizer, or a snack with dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or spicy mayo. For an extra layer of deliciousness, sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped herbs over the tots in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing the cheese to melt and the herbs to release their aroma. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, looking for a fun dinner addition, or simply craving a crunchy snack, these Easy Smash Tots are sure to satisfy. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most enjoyable.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

The Smash Tots recipe is a culinary delight that transforms the humble tater tot into a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s impossible to resist. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Crispier Texture: Smashing the tots increases their surface area, resulting in an enhanced crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Flavorful Twist: Seasoning the smashed tots with your choice of spices adds depth and allows you to customize the flavor to match your meal or mood.
• Versatile Side or Snack: Whether you’re pairing them with breakfast, serving them as a side for dinner, or enjoying them as a snack, these tots fit perfectly into any eating occasion.
• Fun and Easy: The simplicity of smashing and seasoning adds an element of fun to cooking, making this recipe both easy to prepare and enjoyable to make.
• Customizable Toppings: From melted cheese and sour cream to chives and bacon bits, you can top these tots with an array of ingredients to elevate their taste further.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their universally appealing crispy texture and customizable flavors make smash tots a hit among both adults and children alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or a game day feast, smash tots are a versatile choice that complements any meal setting.

With their unbeatable combination of ease, flavor, and versatility, Easy Smash Tots are sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection, proving that great things come in small, smashed packages.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots

Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots, where the classic crispy tots meet the indulgent flavors of a smash burger. This innovative recipe combines the convenience of air frying with the irresistible taste and texture of smashed tater tots, seasoned and topped with all your favorite smash burger components. Perfect for those craving the hearty flavors of a burger with the crispy satisfaction of tots, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a game day feast, or simply looking for a delicious twist on traditional sides.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Russet Potatoes: The starchy texture of Russet potatoes makes them ideal for creating homemade tater tots, offering the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior when cooked.
• All-Purpose Flour: A sprinkle of all-purpose flour helps bind the grated potato mixture, ensuring the tots hold their shape and add a slight crispiness to their exterior.
• Garlic Powder: This adds a savory, aromatic depth to the tots, enhancing their taste with a hint of garlic.
• Fresh Rosemary: Chopped fresh rosemary infuses the tots with a fragrant, earthy flavor, elevating the simple potato with its aromatic presence, and pairing beautifully with the savory notes of the SmashBurger components.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper elevate the natural flavors of the potatoes and spices.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the tots achieve a golden, crispy exterior while adding a subtle richness to their flavor

How To Make Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots

Transform your tater tot experience with these Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots, where the classic tot meets the iconic smash burger technique for an unforgettable crispy treat. This innovative recipe combines the comforting, crispy edges of smashed potatoes with the savory flavors of a burger, all in one bite-sized snack. Perfect for those who love a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these smash tots are sure to be a hit at any gathering, snack time, or as a unique side dish. Here’s how to make them:

Prepare The Potatoes:

Wash and peel potatoes. Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil, then parboil the potatoes for 7 minutes. Drain potatoes and set them aside to cool.

Make the Tater Tot Mixture:

Shred potatoes, then using a cheesecloth, remove as much liquid as possible. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, air fryer setting—line air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper.

Add shredded potatoes to a mixing bowl, flour, and mix well. Add two teaspoons garlic powder, one teaspoon dried rosemary, one teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper to potatoes and mix well.

Form the Tots

Scoop one tablespoon of potato mixture, then using your hands, roll into a firm ball, then shape to tot form. Place tots in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Spray with cooking oil.

Air Fry:

Cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown, then remove from the basket and add to a mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil sprinkle the rest of the seasonings over the top and toss. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve.

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots are a versatile and creative dish that easily adapts to include a variety of flavors and ingredients. Here are some delightful recipe variations to explore:

• Cheesy Smash Tots: After smashing the tots, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese blend on top before air frying. The cheese melts into a deliciously gooey layer, adding richness and flavor.
• Bacon-Wrapped Smash Tots: Wrap each smashed tot with a half slice of bacon before air frying. The bacon adds a smoky, savory taste and becomes perfectly crispy, complementing the soft potato inside.
• Spicy Jalapeño Smash Tots: Mix finely diced jalapeños into the potato mixture for a spicy kick. For an extra boost, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle with chili powder before air frying.
• Garlic Parmesan Smash Tots: After air frying, toss the crispy tots with grated Parmesan cheese and a generous amount of garlic powder. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness.
• Sweet Potato Smash Tots: Substitute Russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter version—sweet potato pairs well with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth and complexity.
• Loaded Smash Tots: Top your cooked smash tots with classic loaded potato fixings – sour cream, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. Serve as a decadent side dish or a fun appetizer.
• Herb and Garlic Smash Tots: Incorporate a mix of finely chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley, into your potato mixture. Add minced garlic for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
• Truffle Smash Tots: Drizzle truffle oil over your cooked smash tots and toss gently to coat. The truffle oil adds a luxurious aroma and taste, elevating the simple tot to gourmet status.
• Buffalo Smash Tots: For a tangy, spicy treat, coat your smashed tots in buffalo sauce before air frying. Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• Mediterranean Smash Tots: Mix in feta cheese crumbles, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes into the potato mixture for a Mediterranean flair. Garnish with fresh dill or oregano after cooking.

These variations on the Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots recipe offer something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or even a bit sweet. Experiment with these ideas or create your own unique combination to discover your perfect smash tot creation.

Pro Tips

Creating the ultimate homemade Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots involves a blend of technique and creativity. Here are some pro tips to ensure your tots turn out perfectly crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible:

• Dry the Potatoes Well: After grating the potatoes, ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
• Season Generously: Don’t hold back on seasoning. The potatoes and the flour mixture absorb a lot of flavors, so season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices generously to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Use a Non-Stick Surface: To prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping, use parchment paper or a silicone mat in your air fryer basket. Remember to poke holes or cut slits in the parchment paper to allow air circulation.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give your tots enough space in the air fryer. Cooking them in batches, if necessary, ensures they crisp up evenly without steaming.
• Flatten for Maximum Crispiness: Gently press down on each tot to flatten them slightly before cooking. This increases their surface area, leading to a crunchier texture.
• Add a Final Crisp: For an extra crispy finish, increase the air fryer’s temperature for the last few minutes of cooking. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
• Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing the tots to cool for a few minutes after frying can help them set and become even crispier.
• Customize Your Flavors: The beauty of these smash tots is their versatility. Experiment with different spices, cheeses, or toppings to find your favorite combination.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Starting with a preheated air fryer ensures a crispy texture right from the start, mimicking the sear of a smashed burger on a hot grill.
• Serve Immediately: These tots are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest. If you have to reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
• Experiment with Dipping Sauces: Serve your smash tots with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Classic ketchup, spicy mayo, or a creamy ranch are all great choices.
• Enjoy the Process: Making smash tots is fun and allows for creativity in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or techniques to make the recipe your own.

Following these pro tips will help you master the art of making Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots, ensuring a deliciously crispy and savory treat that’s bound to become a favorite.

Faq’s

Can I use different types of potatoes for homemade tater tots? Yes, while Russet potatoes are preferred for their starchy texture, which leads to a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, you can experiment with other varieties. Keep in mind that the texture and moisture content may vary.

Do I need to peel the potatoes? Peeling is recommended for a classic tater tot appearance and texture. However, leaving the skin on can add nutrients and a rustic touch. Ensure they’re well-cleaned if you choose not to peel them.

How do I ensure my tater tots are crispy? Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes by squeezing them in a clean kitchen towel. Additionally, preheating the air fryer and not overcrowding the basket helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Can I make tater tots ahead of time and freeze them? Absolutely! Prepare the tots up to the point of cooking, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. You can cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How long do homemade tater tots last in the freezer? When stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag, homemade tater tots can last up to 3-4 months in the freezer.

Is it necessary to boil the potatoes before grating them for tater tots? For this recipe, there’s no need to boil the potatoes before grating. Raw grated potatoes, once squeezed of excess moisture, are mixed with flour and seasonings and then shaped and cooked.

Can I add other ingredients to the tater tot mixture? Yes, feel free to add finely chopped herbs, cheese, or cooked bacon bits to the mixture for added flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content when adding additional ingredients.

How do I prevent homemade tater tots from falling apart in the air fryer? Ensure the tots are compact and well-shaped before cooking, and avoid flipping them too early. Let them form a crust first to help hold them together.

Why are my tater tots soggy? Sogginess can result from not removing enough moisture from the potatoes or overcrowding the air fryer basket, which steams the tots instead of frying them. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated for the best results.

Can I use an oven if I don’t have an air fryer? Yes, you can bake homemade tater tots in the oven. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at a high temperature (about 425°F or 220°C) until golden and crispy, turning once halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

While you can efficiently serve these with only simple ketchup, here are some great sauces that go well with these Homemade Air Fryer Tater Tots.

• HOMEMADE BLUE-CHEESE DRESSING
• GREEK YOGURT BBQ SAUCE
• CILANTRO-LIME SOUR CREAM CREMA
• OUTBACK BLOOMIN ONION SAUCE
• HOMEMADE YELLOW MUSTARD
• RAISING CANE’S SAUCE
• CHICK-FIL-A SAUCE COPYCAT

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