Mashed Potato Bites are fun, crispy treats filled with creamy mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a side dish to any meal!
Honestly, who can resist a tasty bite with a golden crust? I love serving these with sour cream on the side. Quick to make and always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: The base of these bites should be firm mashed potatoes. Leftovers from a previous meal work great! Just ensure they’re not too soupy. If you need a quick fix, instant mashed potatoes can work, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but you can swap it with any cheese you like such as mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious nutty taste, but if you’re out, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can give a similar flavor for a vegan-friendly option.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan, try using a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
How Do You Get those Perfectly Crispy Edges?
Getting those bites crispy on the outside is key! Follow these tips:
- Use a non-stick muffin tin or grease it generously with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and helps with browning.
- Don’t overfill the muffin tin; filling them about 3/4 full is perfect. This allows the edges to crisp up well.
- For an extra crispy finish, broil them for the last couple of minutes in the oven. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
How to Make Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cooled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the muffin tin
- Sour cream, for topping (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. A quick and easy treat ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, take out a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, beaten egg, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined. This is the tasty filling for our bites!
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Next, scoop the mixture into the greased mini muffin tin. Gently press down on the mixture to fill each cup evenly. This helps them hold their shape during baking.
4. Bake the Bites:
Pop the tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the edges turn golden and crispy—a wonderful sign they’re ready!
5. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the bites out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. After that, carefully pop them out of the muffin tin. A little nudge with a fork can help if they stick a bit.
6. Top Them Off:
If you’d like, add a small dollop of sour cream on top of each bite for a creamy finish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, serve your delicious mashed potato bites warm as a delightful snack or side dish. Enjoy each crispy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully for this recipe. Just ensure they’re cold and firm before using them to maintain the right texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potato Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze Mashed Potato Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let the bites cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They should last for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What Can I Serve with Mashed Potato Bites?
These bites are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or ketchup, or serve them as a side with burgers, grilled meats, or salad!