These mashed potato bites are little balls of joy! Filled with creamy potatoes and a golden crispy coating, they are perfect for snacking or as a fun side dish.
Making them is a breeze, and they disappear fast at parties! I mean, who can resist potato deliciousness? I love to dip them in ketchup or sour cream! Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Make sure to use creamy mashed potatoes. You can use leftovers or make fresh ones. If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes work too but may lack the flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor. Vegan cheese is an option for dairy-free needs!
Bacon: If you’re avoiding meat, crispy fried onions or a plant-based bacon substitute are great choices. They add crunch and flavor without the meat.
Cornflakes or Breadcrumbs: Cornflakes add a fun crunch; if you don’t have them on hand, breadcrumbs work just fine. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Mashed Potato Bites?
To achieve a crispy exterior and soft interior in your mashed potato bites, there are a few key steps to follow:
- Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C). This helps in getting that golden brown color quickly.
- Compact Mixture: When filling the muffin tin, press the potato mixture down firmly. This helps them hold their shape and creates a sturdier bite that crisps up nicely.
- Use Cooking Spray or Oil: Greasing the muffin tin well prevents sticking and promotes a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step!
Let them cool for a couple of minutes after removing from the oven—this keeps them from falling apart and helps them set better.
Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter, milk, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
- 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, divided
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, for a total of around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil to ensure your bites don’t stick!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your prepared mashed potatoes, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the mixture evenly into each mini muffin cup. Make sure to press down gently to form compact little bites. This helps them hold their shape while baking!
4. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously on top of each potato bite. The cheese will melt beautifully and add delicious flavor!
5. Bake Until Crispy:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be golden and crispy and the cheese nicely melted.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once they’re baked, take them out of the oven and immediately sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped chives on top of each bite. This adds a great crunch and fresh flavor!
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the bites cool for a few minutes to make them easier to handle. Carefully remove them from the muffin tin and serve warm. Enjoy!
These mashed potato bites are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure they are well seasoned. If they seem dry, you can add a little butter or milk to bring back some moisture before mixing.
How Can I Make These Mashed Potato Bites Gluten-Free?
You can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of cornflakes. Just check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Can I Freeze the Mashed Potato Bites?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked bites. Just assemble them in the muffin tin, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra few minutes to the cooking time while they’re still frozen.
What Can I Serve with Mashed Potato Bites?
These bites pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, like sour cream, ketchup, or ranch dressing. They also make a great accompaniment to meats, salads, or as part of a party appetizer spread.