These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are little flavor bombs! Packed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, and crispy bacon, they make the perfect snack or side dish.
Seriously, who can resist these tasty bites? They’re super easy to make and always a hit at parties. Grab some and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes for the best texture. If you don’t have any on hand, you can make some quickly by boiling and mashing fresh potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great kick, but you can also mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier version. Just make sure to use shredded cheese for easier melting.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a delicious crunch. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon, or even crispy pancetta can provide a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko gives your bites extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs will work, but they may not be as crispy. You can also crush some crackers for a fun twist!
How Do You Get That Perfect Crunch on the Outside?
Getting a golden, crispy exterior is key to these bites. Follow these steps for success:
- After shaping your potato balls, ensure they’re well-coated in each step of the breading process. The flour helps the egg stick, while panko adds the crunch.
- Heat your oil to the right temperature (350°F/175°C) to avoid sogginess. A thermometer can help! Too low, and they absorb oil; too high, and they burn.
- Fry in small batches, so the temperature remains consistent. This guarantees even cooking and a perfect golden brown color.
- Lastly, drain the bites on paper towels to remove extra oil. This keeps them crispy!
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled, plus extra for topping
- 2 green onions, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup sour cream (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
For Frying:
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to fry, so you can have delicious Loaded Mashed Potato Bites ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it’s evenly blended.
2. Shape the Bites:
With clean hands, take a portion of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place each shaped ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into bites.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Create a breading station by placing three shallow bowls next to each other: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last one with panko bread crumbs. This will make breading easier!
4. Bread the Potato Bites:
Take one potato ball and roll it in the flour first, making sure it is entirely coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks. Place the breaded ball back on the baking sheet.
5. Fry the Bites:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the potato bites in small batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once fried, sprinkle the bites with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions for a tasty garnish. Serve them warm with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, loaded mashed potato bites as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are well-mixed and not too watery. If they seem a bit dry, adding a splash of cream or milk can help.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded potato bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for similar creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream!
