Description
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are crispy, golden-fried balls packed with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and fresh green onions. These bite-sized snacks are perfect as appetizers or party treats, offering a delicious mix of textures and rich flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated to form a consistent mixture.
- Form the Bites: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands for even sizing. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat as finger food.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process organized and efficient.
- Bread the Potato Bites: Coat each potato ball first by rolling it in flour, then dipping it into the beaten eggs, and finally rolling it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This triple coating ensures a crispy exterior.
- Heat Oil: In a skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for evenly cooked, golden bites without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Bites: Fry the breaded potato balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the potato bites with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or ketchup.
Notes
- Leftover mashed potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold together better than freshly made potatoes.
- Ensure that the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked bites.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- These bites can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before frying.
- To keep bites warm before serving, place them in a low oven (around 200°F) on a baking sheet.
