Tater tots, those delightfully crispy potato treats, are a staple in many households and an irresistible side dish for various meals. From classic brands that have been perfecting their recipes for decades to innovative newcomers reinventing the tot, the market is full of options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're seeking the perfect crunch or a unique flavor twist, there's a brand out there that can make your tater tot dreams come true. Join us as we explore the top brands that deliver the best of this beloved snack below.
Illustration of tater tots
Best brands of tater tots in 2025
Ore-Ida
Ore-Ida, founded by brothers F. Nephi and Golden Grigg, is renowned for inventing and producing Tater Tots, a beloved frozen food staple. By 1960, Ore-Ida had captured 25 percent of the frozen potato market and was selling Tater Tots across the United States and parts of Canada. The company's innovative use of potato scraps, mixed with flour and seasonings, led to the creation of Tater Tots in 1953. After being acquired by H.J. Heinz in 1965, Ore-Ida continued to thrive, and following Heinz's merger with Kraft Foods in 2015, it remains a subsidiary with significant sales, reaching about $500 million in 2022. Ore-Ida's Tater Tots have become iconic, featured in various cultural contexts and enjoyed globally. Discover more about their history and impact at the Oregon Encyclopedia.
Alexia
Alexia is renowned as one of the top producers of tater tots, particularly with their Organic Yukon Select Puffs, which received a 9.5 out of 10 rating for their rich and buttery taste. These tater tots are made from Yukon gold potatoes and sea salt, offering a premium flavor profile. They are also noted for being USDA Organic and non-GMO, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Each serving of 14 pieces contains 100 calories and 4 grams of fat, making them a relatively healthy option. Alexia's commitment to quality and flavor has made their tater tots a favorite among consumers.
Market Pantry
Market Pantry, a brand offered by Target, stands out as one of the best producers of tater tots, praised for its balanced texture and flavor. In a tasting comparison, Market Pantry Potato Puffs were noted for their nice balance between soft and crunchy, with a steamy inside that tastes like a genuine potato dish rather than homogeneous goo. This brand fared better than many competitors, including some well-known names, in terms of overall quality and consumer satisfaction. The product is available at an affordable price of $1.97 for 32 ounces, making it a value-for-money option. This positive reception highlights Market Pantry's commitment to delivering high-quality frozen potato products.
Cascadian Farm
Cascadian Farm is a renowned producer of high-quality tater tots, offering their organic and Non-GMO certified 'Spud Puppies' that are loved by families. These frozen potatoes are grown organically and are free from obligatory allergens, making them a safe and healthy option. Each serving of 3 oz (85g) contains 170 calories, 10g of total fat, and 2g of protein. Since 1972, Cascadian Farm has been a pioneer in organic farming, supporting practices that regenerate the land and communities. Their Spud Puppies are versatile and can be used in various recipes, from simple side dishes to complex casseroles.
Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's is often praised for its high-quality frozen products, including tater tots, which are renowned for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. While specific rankings may vary, Trader Joe's tater tots are frequently highlighted for their excellent texture and flavor profile. They are a popular choice among consumers due to their competitive pricing and the brand's commitment to quality. However, detailed rankings and reviews of Trader Joe's tater tots are not as widely documented as those of other brands like Ore-Ida or McCain. Despite this, Trader Joe's remains a trusted name in the grocery market.
Lamb Weston
Lamb Weston is a leading producer of tater tots and other frozen potato products, holding the number one market share in North America with over 40% of the market. The company, which became independent in 2016 after being spun off from Conagra, offers a wide range of products including French fries, sweet potato fries, diced potatoes, and hash browns. Lamb Weston's tater tots, such as the Tater Puffs, are known for their uniform size, better portion control, and longer hold time, making them a favorite among restaurants and food service providers. The company serves over 100 countries and has a strong customer base, including major clients like McDonald's, which accounts for 14% of its fiscal 2024 sales. With its focus on volume-based growth and a robust product portfolio, Lamb Weston continues to be a dominant player in the frozen potato market. For more detailed information about their product offerings, visit Lamb Weston's product page.
Sprout's Farmers Market
Sprouts Farmers Market, while not specifically known for producing tater tots, is a leading specialty grocer that has seen significant growth in store visits, with a 13% and 12% increase in February and March 2024, respectively, outpacing the industry average. The chain's success is driven by its expansion efforts, including opening 30 new stores in 2023 and aiming for 35 more in 2024, and its focus on high-income customers who are less impacted by high food prices. However, Sprouts' product lineup is more focused on fresh produce and health-oriented products rather than processed items like tater tots. The company's sales are predominantly from perishable products, accounting for 58% of total sales in 2022. Despite this, Sprouts' strong market presence and customer loyalty make it a notable player in the grocery sector. For more information, visit the Sprouts Farmers Market website.
McCain
McCain Foods Limited is a leading producer in the frozen potato market, particularly renowned for its high-quality tater tots. The company, along with other major players, dominates about 98% of the US$68-billion frozen potato products market. McCain's products, including tater tots, have seen significant price increases, with a 47% rise in prices from July 2022 to July 2024, despite a 33% decline in input costs during the same period. The company's strong market presence and product demand are driven by the growing consumer preference for convenient ready-to-cook frozen foods. McCain's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a trusted brand in the industry.
Kroger's Private Selection
Kroger's Private Selection brand, particularly their Tater Bites, stands out as one of the best producers of tater tots, offering a deep, savory flavor reminiscent of childhood cafeteria treats. These tater tots are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them a favorite among consumers. In taste tests, Kroger's Tater Bites have been praised for their oniony flavor and pairing well with charbroiled burgers and tangy ketchup. While they may not be the top choice in every test, they remain a strong contender in the frozen tater tot market. With Kroger being the leading supermarket chain in America, their products are widely available across 2,855 stores in the U.S.
Whole Foods 365 Everyday Value
The 365 by Whole Foods Market brand is highly regarded for its tater tots, known for their crunchy exterior and light, airy interior. Made with real potatoes and no artificial flavors or preservatives, these tater puffs are a favorite among food experts and consumers alike. They are rich in vitamin C and have only 150 calories per serving, making them a relatively healthy option. These tater tots are frozen within hours of harvest, ensuring freshness and quality. They can be easily prepared in a deep fryer, air fryer, or oven for a quick and delicious meal.
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