Loaded Mashed Potato Bites has been a staple in my home for years, especially during family gatherings and game days. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy interior that is just bursting with flavor. My kids love them, and I adore how versatile they can be! I remember the first time I made these; the aroma of bacon and cheese wafted through the air, enticing everyone to the kitchen. These little bites are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and are sure to impress your guests. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
- They’re incredibly cheesy and delicious.
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Great way to use leftover mashed potatoes.
- Kid-friendly and a hit at parties.
- Can be made gluten-free with simple swaps.
- So versatile—try different fillings for cheesy mashed potato bites.
Ingredients for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Here’s everything you need for these scrumptious bites:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes – leftover works great!
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped – adds crunch and flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that melty goodness.
- 3 green onions, sliced – for freshness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – to enhance the flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt – adjust to taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper – adds a little heat.
- 1 egg, beaten – binds the mixture together.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – for the crispy coating.
- Cooking spray or oil for frying – to achieve that golden brown color.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
- Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F or your oven to 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, bacon, cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Step 3: Use a spoon or scoop to shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the lined tray. Chill for 20 minutes to firm up.
- Step 4: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, bake for 15-18 minutes, or deep fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Let cool slightly before serving with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dip.
Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
These tricks guarantee success every time:
- Chill the balls before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Make them spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
What’s the secret to perfect Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?
The key is to get the right balance of ingredients. Make sure not to overmix, or you’ll lose that lovely texture.
Can I make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the bites and freeze them before cooking. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time if cooking from frozen.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?
Avoid making them too large; they won’t cook through. Also, if the mix is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to help bind everything together.
Best Ways to Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
These tasty bites are perfect for parties! Serve them alongside a platter of savory mashed potato snacks, fresh veggies, and various dips like sour cream or ranch dressing. They also pair wonderfully with a side of tangy coleslaw, making for a complete appetizer spread.
Nutrition Facts for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Allow the bites to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, air fry or bake at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
Can I freeze Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?
Definitely! They freeze beautifully. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Feel free to substitute with turkey bacon, or skip it altogether for a vegetarian option. You can also add in some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Are there any gluten-free options?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these bites gluten-free. They’ll still be delicious!
Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute mashed potatoes with vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for binding.
Variations of Loaded Mashed Potato Bites You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with your loaded mashed potato bites! You can make stuffed mashed potato balls by adding different fillings like jalapeños, cheese, or even barbecue pulled pork. For a healthier twist, try baked versions instead of fried and swap the bacon for veggies or beans for a plant-based option.
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Loaded Mashed Potato Bites: 5 Irresistible Recipes to Try
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are crispy, cheesy, and packed with bacon. They serve as a perfect appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, bacon, cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
- Use a spoon or scoop to shape the mixture into small balls and place on a lined tray. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, or deep fry until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly and serve with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dip.
Notes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fry, Bake, Deep Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
