Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Craving comfort food with a twist? These loaded mashed potato bites are dangerously addictive!

Imagine all the goodness of a loaded baked potato but in a crispy, bite-sized form. With cheddar, bacon bits, and green onions, they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Serve them piping hot with a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green onions.

These little bites of heaven work beautifully as an appetizer, side dish, or a creative way to reinvent leftover mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• Mashed Potatoes: The foundation of the bites provides a creamy, starchy base. Cold potatoes work best as they’re easier to shape.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It adds a rich, tangy flavor and creates a gooey interior when melted.
• Bacon: It provides a smoky, salty crunch and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Green Onions: They add a subtle crunch and herbaceous note.
• Egg: It acts as a binding agent to help hold the potato mixture together during shaping and frying.
• Seasoning: Garlic powder adds savory depth, while salt and pepper enhance all other flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: It helps the egg wash adhere better to the potato balls.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an extra crispy, light, and airy exterior coating.
• Vegetable Oil: It’s used for frying and creates a golden-brown exterior.

How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Prepare the mashed potato mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Shape:

Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball or small patty shape. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to firm up.

Coat:

Set up a breading station: one plate for flour, one bowl for beaten eggs, and one plate for breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball in flour, dip into the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coating.

Fry:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Fry the bites in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Garnish and serve:

Arrange the bites on a serving platter. Top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, and extra bacon or cheese, if desired.

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Tips for the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Follow these tips for the best results with this recipe.

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How to Store

Keep these tasty apps fresh by following these steps.

• To Store: Place the cooled potato bites in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• To Freeze: Arrange the uncooked breaded bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
• To Reheat: Place the bites on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For the best results, avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, as long as they’re thick and chilled before shaping. Fresh mashed potatoes offer better texture and flavor, though.

→ How do I prevent them from falling apart during frying?

Chill the shaped bites for at least 20 minutes and make sure the coating is secure before frying.

→ Can these be baked or air fried instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp.

→ What dips go well with these bites?

Try sour cream, ranch, garlic aioli, cheese sauce, or chipotle mayo for extra flavor.

→ Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, shape and bread them ahead, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep them crispy.