Loaded mashed potato bites are little balls of potato goodness! They combine creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, and crispy bacon, all baked to golden perfection. Yum!
These bites are perfect for snacking or serving at parties. I can’t resist popping a few in my mouth as I make them. Just try not to eat them all before serving, right? 😄
What I love is how easy they are to make! Just scoop, bake, and enjoy. They also freeze well, so you can have tasty treats anytime you want! Perfect for the potato lovers in your life.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use creamy, well-seasoned mashed potatoes. If you don’t have leftovers, instant mashed potatoes can be a quick substitute—just make sure to adjust the seasoning!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic for flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want a little kick. Vegan cheese works too if you need a dairy-free option!
Bacon: Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor. For a healthier or vegetarian version, try using turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for crunch.
Green Onions: They brighten up the bites! If you can’t find them, regular onions or chives can be used, though they might change the overall flavor slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light crunch, but regular breadcrumbs can substitute. Crush some cornflakes as a crunchy alternative too!
How Do You Get That Crispy Coating on Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?
Achieving a crispy outside is key to making these bites truly irresistible. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your potato mixture is cold; this helps it hold together better when frying.
- Set up a tidy breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Using three separate bowls keeps it organized and effective.
- Double coating is the secret! First, coat the balls in flour, then dip them in egg, and finish with breadcrumbs. For an extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Fry at the right temperature! Make sure your oil is around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too low, they’ll absorb oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
- Fry in small batches to avoid crowding, which helps maintain the oil temperature.
Following these steps will get you perfectly crispy potato bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably creamy and well-seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko or regular breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on how many batches you make. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes for these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well until all the ingredients are evenly blended.
2. Shape the Potato Bites:
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, take portions of the potato mixture and form them into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get your breading station ready with three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs. This setup helps make the coating process organized and easy.
4. Coat the Potato Bites:
Begin by rolling each potato ball in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy bite, you can repeat the dipping in egg and breadcrumbs.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of potato mixture into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
6. Fry the Potato Bites:
Carefully place the breaded potato bites into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy all around.
7. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. While they’re still warm, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top so it melts slightly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with any additional chopped bacon and green onions. Serve the loaded mashed potato bites warm with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
These crispy, cheesy bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful snack!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure they are well-seasoned and creamy for the best flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, consider using cooked mushrooms or crispy chickpeas for texture. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture and form the bites ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked bites on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.