If you are looking for a delightful appetizer or snack that offers a comforting burst of flavor in every bite, the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe is an absolute must-try. These crispy, golden nuggets hide a creamy, cheesy mashed potato center loaded with bacon and green onions, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a cozy treat, this recipe transforms simple leftover mashed potatoes into an irresistible snack that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward these tasty treats. The ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a critical role in balancing flavor, texture, and appearance to make your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites truly spectacular.
- Mashed potatoes: Use about 2 cups, preferably leftover for best texture and added flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup adds the perfect gooey, cheesy richness.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Half a cup brings a smoky, savory depth that makes every bite sing.
- Chopped green onions: A quarter cup adds bold, fresh notes and a pop of color.
- Sour cream (optional): A quarter cup can elevate creaminess if you like your bites extra smooth inside.
- Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon to give a subtle, aromatic warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: A quarter teaspoon each to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
- Panko breadcrumbs: One cup provides the crunchy, golden coating for that satisfying outer crunch.
- Large eggs: Two beaten eggs are essential to help the breadcrumbs stick beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: Half a cup to create a light base layer on the potato balls for better breading adhesion.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, ensures even, golden crispiness without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by combining the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream if you’re using it, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything well so all those delicious flavors come together evenly. This step sets the flavorful foundation for your bites, so take a moment to fold gently but thoroughly.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls
Next, roll your potato mixture into small, 1-inch balls. I find using slightly wet hands helps keep the mixture from sticking and ensures the bites hold their shape well during frying. Making these bite-sized is key to perfect cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three bowls: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs. This classic breading method gives you the most consistent crispy coating on your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe.
Step 4: Bread the Potato Bites
Coat each potato ball first in flour, then dip it into the eggs, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This triple-layer helps create that irresistible golden crust that’s crunchy on the outside yet tender inside.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a skillet or fryer. Fry the bites in batches, giving them enough space to cook evenly. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown. Then, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. This frying step is where those bites transform from humble potatoes to a golden, crunchy masterpiece.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions or a light dusting of smoked paprika right after frying to make your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites visually stunning and extra flavorful. A dollop of sour cream on the side is a creamy finishing touch that pairs spectacularly well.
Side Dishes
These bites are incredibly versatile and go hand-in-hand with many side dishes. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness, or with a tangy coleslaw for an added crunch and zing. They’re also fantastic paired with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Creative Ways to Present
Wondering how to wow guests? Present the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites on a rustic wooden board with mini bowls of various dips arranged around. You can even skewer a few bites with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go finger food at your next party. Adding tiny flags or fun labels can make these bites the star of any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Loaded Mashed Potato Bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They retain their flavor well, though the crisp exterior softens. Reheating helps bring back some crispiness, so keep reading for tips!
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked breaded potato bites by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag or container, and they will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, fry them straight from frozen for convenience.
Reheating
To bring back their crunch, reheat your leftover bites in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes work beautifully and allow you to control the texture and seasoning, enhancing the flavor of your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe.
Is it necessary to fry the bites, or can they be baked?
Frying delivers the crispiest exterior, but you can bake them for a lighter version. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these bites vegan or vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Swap cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese alternative, omit the bacon, and use plant-based sour cream and egg substitutes. The bites will still be delicious and satisfying.
What dipping sauces go best with Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?
Ranch, sour cream, ketchup, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce all make fantastic companions, enhancing the savoriness and adding variety.
Can I add other mix-ins to the potato mixture?
Definitely! Try mixing in chopped jalapeños for heat, caramelized onions for sweetness, or even some chopped herbs like chives or parsley to customize your bites.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe is like giving leftover mashed potatoes a glamorous makeover. These crispy, cheesy bites offer comfort with a fun twist, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved go-to snack or appetizer that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are crispy, golden-fried potato balls filled with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. These savory bites are perfect as appetizers or snacks and are served warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading and Frying
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients. In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the Bites. Roll the potato mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands to ensure they are compact and uniform in size.
- Set Up Breading Station. Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs for coating.
- Bread the Balls. Coat each potato ball first by rolling it in flour, then dipping it into the beaten eggs, and finally rolling it in panko breadcrumbs to create an even crust.
- Heat the Oil. Pour vegetable oil into a skillet or fryer and heat it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to submerge the bites for even frying.
- Fry the Bites. Fry the coated potato balls in batches for 2-3 minutes or until they turn a crispy golden brown on all sides.
- Drain and Serve. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or ketchup.
Notes
- Using leftover mashed potatoes works best for this recipe as they are usually thicker and easier to shape.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy bites.
- You can customize the filling by adding chopped jalapeños or shredded ham for extra flavor.
- For a lighter version, consider baking the bites at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
