Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe

If you love all the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and crave the irresistible combo of cheese, bacon, and a golden crispy crust, these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are about to become your new obsession! Perfect as a party appetizer, a fun snack, or even a creative way to repurpose leftover potatoes, each bite is a mini explosion of flavor and texture. Trust me, this recipe is a surefire hit whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how an ordinary set of ingredients transforms into these magical bites. Each staple brings something unique, from creamy richness to bold pops of flavor and glorious crunch on the outside.

• Mashed Potatoes (2 cups, cooled): Start with leftover or freshly made mashed potatoes; smooth and starchy potatoes hold together best.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): Cheddar adds gooey, melty goodness and a tangy sharpness that shines in every bite.
• Cooked Bacon, crumbled (1/4 cup): Bacon brings smoky, savory depth—you can never have too much!
• Green Onions, chopped (1/4 cup): These add freshness and just a touch of color and zip to balance all that richness.
• Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of garlic wakes up the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a mild kick and to round out the savory flavors.
• Egg, lightly beaten (1): The egg helps the mixture bind together and adds a little extra richness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Provides the first layer of crispy breading—don’t skip this step!
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Choose panko or regular for your preferred level of crunch here.
• Oil for frying or baking spray: Your choice! Fry for ultimate crunch or bake for a lighter version—either way, a bit of fat helps achieve that gorgeous golden exterior.

How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Step 1: Make the Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Grab a sturdy spoon or even your (clean) hands to work everything together until the mixture is thoroughly combined and perfectly speckled with bits of bacon and cheese. Don’t rush this step—it’s what ensures each Loaded Mashed Potato Bite has an even distribution of flavor.

Step 2: Shape Into Bites

Scoop out heaping tablespoonfuls of the potato mixture and roll them between your palms to form smooth, compact balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet as you go. This not only makes portioning super easy, but also helps the bites cook evenly. Once you’re finished rolling, transfer the tray to the refrigerator and let them chill for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps the bites hold their shape during breading and cooking, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

While your potato balls are chilling, set up a classic three-step breading station: put flour in one shallow bowl, your beaten egg in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third. This lineup is key for achieving that gloriously crunchy crust on your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites.

Step 4: Coat Each Bite

Working one at a time, gently roll each chilled ball in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Shake off any excess as you go. This triple coating locks in all the creamy insides and gets extra crisp on the outside.

Step 5: Fry or Bake

You’ve got options for cooking: for super crispiness, heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat and fry the bites in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, until beautifully golden. Drain on paper towels. If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment and spritz the bites with cooking spray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Either way, you’re rewarded with crispy, cheesy perfection!

How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Garnishes

The finishing touches really set these bites over the top! Sprinkle with extra green onions, a little more shredded cheddar, or even a dusting of smoked paprika for color. And don’t forget a side of cool, creamy sour cream or ranch for dipping. These simple add-ons bring out the flavors and make your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

These crowd-pleasers are right at home next to a big salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or as an extra treat on a burger night. Their versatility means you can serve them as a starter, a fun side, or a standout finger food at parties.

Creative Ways to Present

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites look adorable arranged on a platter with dipping sauces in the center—think sour cream, sriracha mayo, or creamy blue cheese. Serve them skewer-style for easy party handling, or perch on top of mini romaine leaves for a fresh bite that’s both fancy and functional!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extras, store the fully cooked Loaded Mashed Potato Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow them to cool completely before storing to keep them crisp.

Freezing

You can prep these bites in advance by freezing them before baking or frying! Arrange the breaded, uncooked bites in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months—just thaw slightly before cooking as directed.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, reheat the bites in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it can soften the crust. A quick zap in the air fryer is also a fantastic way to refresh them!

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Instant mashed potatoes work great for this recipe as long as they’re prepared thick and allowed to cool completely. The texture should be sturdy enough to hold its shape when rolled.

What can I substitute for bacon?

If you’d like a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or swap in cooked and crumbled veggie bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers for that smoky flavor boost.

How do I keep the bites from falling apart?

The trick is starting with cool, thick mashed potatoes and giving the shaped bites time to chill in the fridge. The breading process also creates a barrier that helps them hold together while cooking.

Can I make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites ahead for a party?

Absolutely! Assemble and bread them the night before, keep chilled (or frozen), then bake or fry just before party time. They’re an entertainer’s dream since they reheat so well and are totally portable.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic for its sharp flavor and melt factor, but you can have fun mixing in other cheeses too—try pepper jack, gouda, or even a little parmesan for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about Loaded Mashed Potato Bites that turns any gathering into a celebration. They’re ridiculously satisfying and endlessly customizable—and honestly, everyone loves them. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to dazzle your friends and family with this deliciously comforting treat!

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