These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are little pockets of joy! They are crispy on the outside and filled with creamy mashed potatoes mixed with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Who can resist a bite-sized snack that’s super cheesy? They make the perfect finger food at parties or a fun side for dinner. Just beware, you might not want to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: You can use homemade mashed potatoes for a fresh taste, or store-bought for convenience. If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes work too, but they may be a bit softer than traditional ones.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want a twist, try pepper jack for a little heat, or crumbled feta for a different texture!
Bacon: You can use turkey bacon or a meat substitute for a healthier version. For a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch! If you don’t have any, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but you might miss that extra crispiness. You can also try crushed cornflakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Shape and Fry the Perfect Potato Bites?
The key to shaping and frying these bites is consistency! Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Keep your hands damp when rolling to prevent sticking.
- After mixing the ingredients, take a portion and roll it into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, around 350°F (175°C), which helps to achieve that golden brown color.
- Fry in batches to avoid crowding, which can drop the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites.
- If you like extra crunch, consider double coating: dip in egg and breadcrumbs a second time!
Let them drain on paper towels for a couple of minutes to get rid of excess oil. Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream!
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and then around 15 minutes for frying. Enjoy these crispy bites right after they’re made for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (reserving some for topping), and the white parts of the chopped green onions. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Add salt and pepper to taste and give it a quick stir again. Yum!
2. Shape the Bites:
Grab small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place these balls on a tray lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
3. Prepare for Breading:
Set up your breading stations! In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third, pour the panko bread crumbs. You’ll be using these to coat the bites for that beautiful crispy outer layer!
4. Coat the Potato Bites:
Take each potato ball and roll it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make them stick. If you want them extra crispy, feel free to repeat the egg and panko steps again!
5. Fry the Bites:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Be careful, and if you’re using a thermometer, make sure it’s accurate! Fry the potato bites in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to crowd the pan—this helps them fry better!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once golden and delicious, remove the bites with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. While they’re still warm, sprinkle the tops with the reserved bacon pieces, the green parts of the green onions, and the remaining cheddar cheese. The heat will slightly melt the cheese, making it even more delightful!
7. Enjoy!
Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are the perfect crunchy appetizer or side dish! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for these bites. Just make sure they’re not too watery; if they are, you might want to add a bit more flour to the mixture to help them hold their shape.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
Store any leftover potato bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded potato bites on a lined baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With These Bites?
These bites are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy ketchup. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!