Tater Tot Waffles Recipe

Who said waffles need to be sweet? These savory tater tot waffles are a delightful twist on the classic dish. With the familiar flavor of tater tots transformed into a crispy waffle, it's a fun and exciting way to enjoy a familiar food in a new form.

Photos of Tater Tot Waffles Recipe

The main ingredient you need for this recipe, tater tots, are commonly found in the frozen food section of your local grocery store. These are small, cylindrical pieces of grated potato, usually deep-fried and seasoned. If you can't find tater tots, frozen hash browns can also work as a substitute.

Ingredients for Tater Tot Waffles

Vegetable oil: This will be used to grease your waffle maker, preventing the tater tots from sticking and helping to achieve a crispy finish.

Tater tots: The star of this dish, these offer a crisp exterior and soft interior when cooked, making them perfect for waffles.

Kosher salt: A type of coarse salt, it enhances the natural flavors of the tater tots.

One reader, Giselle Gulley says:

This tater tot waffles recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and the waffles come out crispy and delicious. My family loves them for breakfast or as a fun side dish. It's a great way to switch up the usual tater tots and add some excitement to mealtime!

Giselle Gulley

Techniques Required for Perfect Tater Tot Waffles

How to prepare the waffle maker: Ensure the waffle maker is clean and preheat it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to line up the tater tots: Place the tater tots in a single layer, tightly packed, on the waffle maker to ensure even cooking and a cohesive waffle.

How to sprinkle with salt: Evenly distribute the salt over the tater tots to add flavor to the waffle.

How To Make Tater Tot Waffles

Tater tot waffles are a fun breakfast treat and alternative to hash browns. They can even be served like a sandwich or loaded with various toppings.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspvegetable oil,for brushing
32oztater tots,thawed
½tspkosher salt

Instructions

Turn on belgian waffle maker and brush lightly with oil.
Line up the tater tots tightly next to each other.
Sprinkle with salt and close and turn, cooking for 5 minutes on high heat until crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 30.94kcal
Fat: 3.50g
Saturated Fat: 0.23g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.60g
Sodium: 8.14mg
Calcium: 0.01mg
Potassium: 0.00mg
Iron: 0.00mg

Pro Tip for Achieving Crispy Tater Tot Waffles

To ensure your tater tot waffles are extra crispy, make sure to preheat your Belgian waffle maker before adding the tater tots. This allows the tots to start cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier texture. Additionally, using a high heat setting will help achieve that desired crunch. Remember, don't open the waffle maker too often as it lets out heat and can result in a less crispy waffle.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Tater Tot Waffles

Prep ahead: Prepare the tater tots the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time in the morning and make the process more efficient.

Use non-stick spray: Instead of brushing the waffle maker with oil, use non-stick spray to quickly and evenly coat the surface, making cleanup easier.

Double batch: Make a double batch of tater tot waffles and freeze the extras. Simply reheat them in the toaster for a quick and convenient breakfast or snack.

Organize ingredients: Lay out all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe beforehand to streamline the cooking process and minimize time spent searching for items.

Multi-task: While the tater tot waffles are cooking, use that time to prepare other components of the meal or clean up the kitchen to maximize efficiency.

Substitute Ingredients For Tater Tot Waffles Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and works well for cooking at high temperatures.
tater tots - Substitute with hash browns: Hash browns can be used as a similar potato base for the waffles, providing a crispy texture and delicious flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Creative Ways to Serve Tater Tot Waffles

Elevate the tater tots: Arrange the crispy tater tot waffles in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, creating a visually appealing and appetizing display.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives and parsley over the tater tot waffles to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with truffle oil: Lightly drizzle the tater tot waffles with a touch of decadent truffle oil to impart a luxurious aroma and elevate the overall flavor profile.
Accompany with a gourmet dipping sauce: Serve the tater tot waffles with a side of house-made aioli or a tangy remoulade, presented in a delicate sauce boat for an elegant touch.
Add a touch of edible gold leaf: For a touch of opulence, delicately place a few edible gold leaf flakes on the tater tot waffles to add a touch of luxury and sophistication.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tater Tot Waffles

Belgian waffle maker: A kitchen appliance specifically designed to make Belgian-style waffles, featuring deeper pockets and a thicker batter than traditional waffles.
Brush: A kitchen utensil with bristles used for applying oil or other liquids to the waffle maker to prevent sticking.
Tongs: A tool with two long arms and a pivot near the handle, used for flipping and removing the tater tot waffles from the waffle maker.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting and serving the tater tot waffles without damaging their shape.

Storing and Freezing Tater Tot Waffles for Later

Let the tater tot waffles cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and ensure they maintain their crispy texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled waffles in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the tater tot waffles:
- Arrange the cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the waffles are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen waffles to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each waffle with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen tater tot waffles will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated or frozen waffles:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the waffles on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes for refrigerated waffles, or 15-20 minutes for frozen waffles, until heated through and crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven for a quicker option.
Avoid microwaving the waffles, as this may cause them to become soggy and lose their crispy texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Tater Tot Waffles

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover tater tot waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method ensures that the waffles retain their crispiness and texture, making them taste almost as good as freshly made ones.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the tater tot waffles in a toaster or toaster oven. Simply place the waffles in the toaster and heat them on a medium-high setting for 2-3 minutes, or until they're heated through and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover tater tot waffles on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until they're heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer, less crispy texture compared to the oven or toaster methods.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover tater tot waffles, try reheating them in a skillet or on a griddle. Melt a small amount of butter or oil in the skillet over medium heat, then place the waffles in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they're heated through and crispy. This method allows you to add a little extra richness and crispiness to the waffles.
For a fun and creative twist, use your leftover tater tot waffles as a base for other dishes. Cut them into smaller pieces and use them as croutons in a salad, or crumble them and use them as a topping for a casserole or soup. You can also use them as a base for eggs benedict, replacing the traditional English muffin with a crispy tater tot waffle.

Interesting Trivia About Tater Tot Waffles

Tater tots are a popular American side dish made from grated and deep-fried potatoes. They were created in 1953 by the Ore-Ida company and have since become a staple in many households. They are often enjoyed as a snack or as a side dish with various meals. Despite their small size, tater tots are packed with flavor and are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes, including the tater tot waffles recipe. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a dish, tater tots are a beloved comfort food for many.

Is Making Tater Tot Waffles at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this tater tot waffles recipe is quite high. With just a few simple ingredients, it offers a budget-friendly option for a delicious and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5-$7, making it an affordable choice for many families. In terms of the overall verdict, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its simplicity, taste, and cost-effectiveness.

Are Tater Tot Waffles Healthy or Unhealthy?

This tater tot waffle recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredient, tater tots, are typically high in calories, fat, and sodium. They are also often made from processed potatoes, which have been stripped of many of their nutrients. The addition of oil for cooking further increases the fat content of the dish. The only redeeming quality is the small amount of salt added, which is relatively minimal compared to the sodium already present in the tater tots.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for air frying the tater tot waffles instead of using oil in a waffle maker. This will significantly reduce the fat content while still achieving a crispy texture.
Look for tater tots made from whole potatoes or even sweet potatoes, which will provide more fiber and nutrients than their processed counterparts.
Experiment with adding finely chopped or shredded vegetables to the tater tots before cooking. This will boost the nutrient content and add more flavor to the waffles.
Serve the tater tot waffles with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.
Instead of relying on salt for flavor, try using herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper to season the tater tots before cooking.

Editor's Opinion on the Tater Tot Waffle Trend

This tater tot waffles recipe is a fun and innovative twist on traditional waffles. The use of tater tots creates a crispy and flavorful texture, while the simple seasoning of salt enhances the overall taste. The cooking method in a waffle maker is a clever way to transform tater tots into a unique and visually appealing dish. It's a great option for a savory breakfast or brunch item that will surely impress your guests.

Enhance Your Tater Tot Waffles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until crispy and golden brown.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Wings: Coat chicken wings in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze, then bake until sticky and caramelized.

Cinnamon Sugar Grilled Pineapple: Brush pineapple slices with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and grill until caramelized and tender.

Creamy Bacon and Chive Mashed Potatoes: Mix creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and fresh chives for a savory and indulgent side dish.

Lemon Garlic Butter Green Beans: Sauté green beans in a lemon garlic butter sauce until tender-crisp and infused with flavor.

Delicious Alternatives to Tater Tot Waffles

Loaded Baked Potato Soup: This creamy and hearty soup is loaded with bacon, cheese, and chives for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This sweet and savory glazed salmon is the perfect combination of flavors and is sure to impress your dinner guests.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the creaminess of burrata cheese, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or side dish.

Chocolate Lava Cake: This decadent dessert features a rich and gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you cut into it, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Tater Tot Waffles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for any gathering and will leave everyone wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is sure to be a hit at any party or get-together.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a hint of cinnamon, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a timeless treat.

Why trust this Tater Tot Waffles Recipe:

This recipe is a game-changer for your breakfast routine. The combination of tater tots and a waffle maker creates a unique and delicious dish that will surely impress your family and friends. The simplicity of the ingredients - vegetable oil and kosher salt - ensures that anyone can recreate this recipe with ease. The crispy texture and savory flavor of the tater tot waffles will make this a go-to breakfast option. Trust the process and indulge in this innovative twist on a classic dish.

Share your thoughts on the Tater Tot Waffles Recipe in the Recipe Sharing section. I'd love to hear if you've tried this unique twist on a classic breakfast dish!

FAQ:

Can I use a regular waffle maker for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a regular waffle maker for this recipe. However, the texture and shape of the tater tot waffles may vary slightly from those made in a Belgian waffle maker.

Can I use frozen tater tots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tater tots for this recipe. Make sure to thaw them before using and follow the instructions for lining them up tightly in the waffle maker.

Can I add other seasonings or ingredients to the tater tot waffles?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the tater tot waffles with additional seasonings or mix-ins like shredded cheese, herbs, or cooked bacon for added flavor.

How do I know when the tater tot waffles are done cooking?

The tater tot waffles are done cooking when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Cooking time may vary depending on the waffle maker, so keep an eye on them to achieve the desired texture.

Can I make the tater tot waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tater tot waffles ahead of time and reheat them in a toaster or oven to crisp them up before serving.