These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are small, crispy, and packed with flavor! Made with creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, and tasty toppings, they’re perfect as a snack or side dish.
Who can resist a bite-sized treat with cheesy goodness? I love serving them at parties; they always disappear in a flash! Just pop them in the oven, and you’re ready to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: You can use homemade mashed potatoes for the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, store-bought works just fine. Just make sure they’re creamy to hold the bites together nicely!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you like some spice. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a non-dairy option.
Sour Cream: If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt makes a great alternative! It adds creaminess and tang without losing the texture.
Bacon: Crispy turkey bacon or even cooked sausage can replace regular bacon for a different taste. For a vegetarian option, try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted mushrooms for depth of flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Potato Bites are Crispy?
Achieving the perfect crispy texture is key! Start with a good breading process. Follow these steps:
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
- Chill the bites for 15-20 minutes after breading. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Frying in small batches allows the heat to circulate, making them crispy on all sides.
- Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C). Too low will make them greasy, while too high may burn the outside before cooking the inside.
Following these tips will give you a deliciously crispy result every time!
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably homemade or store-bought but creamy)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 30 minutes to prepare your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites and around 10-15 minutes for frying. It’s best to chill the breaded bites for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator, which helps them hold their shape while frying. So, in total, expect to spend about 1 hour for everything!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture
Start by taking a large bowl and adding your mashed potatoes, 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of your bites!
2. Shape the Bites
Now, grab a small scoop or your hands and start forming the potato mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure they are nice and compact so they hold together when fried!
3. Set Up Your Breading Station
It’s time for some fun! Get three shallow bowls ready. In one, add your flour; in the second, crack your eggs and beat them until blended; and in the third, pour in your breadcrumbs. You’re creating a nice coating for your bites!
4. Coat Each Bite
Take each potato ball and roll it first in the flour to coat it lightly. Then dip it in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure each bite is well coated for that perfect crunch!
5. Chill Before Frying
Place the breaded potato bites on a tray and pop them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps them firm up so they won’t fall apart when frying.
6. Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a tiny piece of bread in; if it sizzles, the oil is ready!
7. Fry the Bites
Carefully add a few potato bites to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them!
8. Drain and Garnish
Using a slotted spoon, remove the bites and let them drain on paper towels. They should be crispy and delicious! While they’re still warm, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top, along with the reserved bacon bits and chopped green onions for added flavor and crunch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while they’re warm and crispy! Serve your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce on the side for an extra tasty treat.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, and using them will save you time. Just make sure they’re creamy enough to hold the bites together!
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs for Breading?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, or you can even use buttermilk as a dip to help the breadcrumbs stick. Both options will yield great results!
How Should I Store Leftover Bites?
Store any leftover Loaded Mashed Potato Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the bites on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.