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Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 145 reviews

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bite-sized snacks perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. These golden-fried or air-fried bites feature a creamy mashed potato center mixed with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb shell. Ideal for parties, game day, or a comforting snack with your favorite dips.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Mixture

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes, cooled (leftovers work best)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1 large egg

Coating

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs, plain or seasoned (panko recommended for crispiness)

For Frying

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. Chill Mashed Potatoes: Ensure mashed potatoes are cold and firm, which makes shaping easier.
  2. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Beat in one large egg to bind the mixture well.
  3. Form the Bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into firm balls using your hands. If the mixture is soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up before shaping.
  4. Prepare Coating Station: Set up three bowls – one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs for double coating to achieve extra crispiness.
  5. Coat the Bites: Roll each potato ball first in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until fully covered.
  6. Fry or Air Fry:
    • To Deep Fry: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
    • To Air Fry: Spray the bites lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.
  7. Drain Excess Oil: Place the fried bites on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  8. Serve: Serve the bites hot with sour cream, ranch, or your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • You can bake instead of frying by cooking at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
  • If mashed potatoes are too runny, add extra flour or instant potato flakes to firm up the mixture.
  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Bites can be formed and coated ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Freeze uncooked or cooked bites for up to 2 months; cook from frozen with additional time.
  • Variations include adding jalapeños for spice, swapping cheeses like mozzarella or gouda, and adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Keywords: mashed potato bites, loaded potato bites, cheesy potato snacks, crispy mashed potatoes, fried potato balls, potato appetizers, party snacks

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/loaded-mashed-potato-bites-recipe/