Why You Should Skip This Fast Food Chain’s Tater Tots: A Costly Disappointment!

Having a bag of tater tots in your freezer is a great idea. They make the perfect side for burgers or barbecues. Just grab a handful, toss them in the oven or air fryer, and in about 15 to 20 minutes, you’ll have crispy, fluffy bites of potato goodness. Dip them in ketchup or try them with a homemade chipotle mayo for an extra kick. But not all frozen tater tots are created equal. Some can be a disappointment. Recently, Chowhound ranked various brands, and Sonic Tots fell short.

With their eye-catching bag featuring Sonic’s logo, the tots might tempt you to buy them. While they taste good, the price might not justify the purchase unless you’re a big fan wanting to recreate Sonic’s famous chili cheese tots at home. Sonic’s version costs about $5.50 for a 28-ounce bag. That’s more than top contenders like Lamb Weston, which is known for better value. In fact, Wegman’s Tater Puffs, which are just as tasty, come in a larger 32-ounce bag for a fraction of the price.

Tater tots have a unique history. They originated in the northwestern United States in the 1950s as a way to use leftover potato scraps from cutting French fries. They were sold frozen right from the start, so enjoying them from the freezer isn’t anything new. Ore-Ida, the brand that legally holds the name “tater tots,” also ranked well in Chowhound’s comparison.

When looking for frozen tots, remember to consider both price and availability. Sonic Tots were tasty with a nice crunch, but finding them can be another hurdle since they aren’t available in every store. If you want to save money and get better quality, consider going for brands like Lamb Weston or Wegman’s instead. 

Understanding consumer habits can help too. Recent surveys indicate that many shoppers are increasingly turning toward value brands, especially during economic uncertainties. With rising prices in many grocery categories, paying close attention to what you’re buying can make a difference. For more insights on budget-friendly eating, the USDA provides valuable information on food prices and choices that can help you shop smarter.