Loaded Mashed Potato Bites (Printer-Friendly)

Bite-sized potato bites with cheddar, bacon, and green onions. Crispy outside and fluffy inside.

# What You’ll Need to Cook:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
02 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
04 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions
05 - 1 large egg, beaten
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - Salt, to taste
08 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Coating

09 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
10 - 1 large egg, beaten (for breading)
11 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

→ For Frying and Garnish

12 - Vegetable oil, for frying
13 - Sour cream, for garnish
14 - Additional chopped green onions, for garnish
15 - Optional extra bacon or cheese, for garnish

# Steps to Prepare:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar, bacon, green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
02 - Scoop 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls or patties. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
03 - Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
04 - Roll each chilled bite in flour, dip in egg, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
05 - Heat oil to 350°F in a skillet or fryer. Fry bites in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
06 - Serve hot with sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions, bacon, or extra cheese as desired.

# Extra Cooking Tips:

01 - Use cold mashed potatoes for best shaping and consistency.
02 - Dust hands with flour when forming balls to prevent sticking.
03 - Enhance flavor by adding jalapeños, herbs, or caramelized onions.
04 - Form and bread ahead of time; refrigerate for 24 hours or freeze before frying.
05 - Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.