Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These smashed tator tots are not only quick and easy to make, but they also deliver a fantastic combination of crispy and soft textures. Cooking them on the Blackstone griddle ensures they are perfectly crispy, and you can top them with various seasonings and garnishes to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Frozen tater tots
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Oil and butter for the griddle
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Salt (or other seasonings to taste)
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Optional toppings: sour cream, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, green onions
Directions
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Prepare the Griddle: Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-low heat (around 350°F). Add oil and butter to the griddle.
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Cook the Tater Tots: Place frozen tater tots on the griddle and cook for a couple of minutes, moving them occasionally to thaw out.
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Increase Heat: Turn the griddle to medium-high (around 400°F).
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Smash the Tots: Lay a piece of parchment paper over the tater tots, then press down with a spatula or cast iron press.
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Cook and Flip: Cook for 2-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-4 minutes.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt or your favorite seasoning and serve warm with optional toppings.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cook time: 5 minutes
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Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Seasonings: Add chili powder, paprika, garlic, or taco seasoning for extra flavor.
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Toppings: Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or green onions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the griddle for the best crispy results.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
Yes, you can boil and smash fresh potatoes before cooking them on the griddle.
2. Can I make these in the oven instead of the griddle?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 25 minutes, smashing them halfway through.
3. Can I make these extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, cook them a bit longer on the griddle.
4. What should I serve these with?
These tater tots make a great side for burgers, steak, or chicken.
5. Can I freeze leftover smashed tator tots?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in a single layer and reheat in the oven or on the griddle.
Conclusion
Blackstone Smashed Tator Tots are an easy, delicious side dish that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Customize them with your favorite seasonings or toppings for a perfect addition to your meals. Whether you’re grilling out or just looking for a quick side dish, these smashed tator tots will be a hit!

Blackstone Smashed Tator Tots
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Griddled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Blackstone Smashed Tator Tots are a crispy, golden twist on the classic tater tots, made quickly and easily on your Blackstone griddle. With a crispy exterior and soft interior, these smashed tots are seasoned to perfection and topped with customizable garnishes like cheese, sour cream, and sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts and quick side dishes!
Ingredients
Frozen tater tots
Oil and butter for the griddle
Salt (or other seasonings to taste)
Optional Toppings:
Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Sautéed mushrooms
Green onions
Instructions
-
Prepare the Griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-low heat (around 350°F). Add oil and butter to the griddle. -
Cook the Tater Tots:
Place frozen tater tots on the griddle and cook for a couple of minutes, moving them occasionally to thaw out. -
Increase Heat:
Turn the griddle to medium-high (around 400°F). -
Smash the Tots:
Lay a piece of parchment paper over the tater tots, then press down with a spatula or cast iron press. -
Cook and Flip:
Cook for 2-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-4 minutes. -
Season and Serve:
Season with salt or your favorite seasoning and serve warm with optional toppings.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the griddle for the best crispy results.
Customization: Add chili powder, paprika, garlic, or taco seasoning for extra flavor. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or green onions for added flair.