These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are like little potato hugs! Made with creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, and tasty toppings, they’re perfect for a snack or party treat.
Honestly, who can resist crispy, cheesy potato goodness? I always make extra because they disappear fast. 🥔❤️ Plus, they’re super easy to whip up and fun to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes for the best results. You can use leftovers or make them fresh. If you’re short on time, shop-bought mashed potatoes work too!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. You can swap it with Monterey Jack for a milder taste, or try Pepper Jack for a kick! Vegan cheese works well too if you want a dairy-free option.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory touch. If you’re vegetarian, go for cooked mushrooms or crispy chickpeas to still get a satisfying crunch. Turkey bacon is another great alternative!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or plant-based sour cream for dairy-free versions.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its extra crunch! Regular breadcrumbs are fine too, but panko gives a nicer texture. You can even use crushed tortilla chips for something different!
How Do I Get My Bites Crispy?
Getting that crunchy exterior is key to delicious Loaded Mashed Potato Bites! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use panko breadcrumbs; they provide a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Double-coat your bites: dip them in flour, then eggs, and panko. This adds extra crispiness.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before frying. A temperature thermometer helps here!
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can drop the oil temperature, making them soggy.
With these steps, you’ll have a perfect crunchy outside while keeping the creamy deliciousness inside! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, divided
- 1/4 cup sour cream, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Breading Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes to create these tasty bites! Perfect for snacking or serving at parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the creamy mashed potatoes, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of crumbled bacon, 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
In three separate bowls, prepare your breading stations. Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in the last bowl. This will make coating the potato balls much easier!
3. Form the Potato Balls:
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, take a portion of the potato mixture and shape it into a ball. If you want a gooey, cheesy center, place a small cube or some shredded cheddar cheese in the middle of the ball and seal it tightly around the cheese.
4. Dredge and Coat:
Start by dredging each potato ball in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the ball in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs stick. For an extra crispy finish, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating again.
5. Fry the Potato Bites:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the potato bites in batches, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
6. Drain and Top:
Once fried, remove the bites with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. Arrange the potato bites on a serving platter, and top each with a dollop of sour cream, remaining bacon bits, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
These delicious Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are best served warm. Enjoy the crunch on the outside and the cheesy, flavorful goodness inside! Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for these bites. Just make sure they’re creamy and smooth. If they’re a bit dry, adding a splash of milk or a bit of butter can help revive them!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover potato bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato balls ahead of time! Just assemble them and place the uncoated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for an hour, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs. For a different twist, try crushed tortilla chips or even crushed crackers for added flavor and crunch!
