Savor the crispy and cheesy goodness of Loaded Potato Bites, a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. These bite-sized treats are infused with shredded cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty scallions, all encased in a golden, crunchy coating. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these Loaded Potato Bites are perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever you crave a tasty potato indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Loaded Potato Bites are a creative and delicious solution for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes. The combination of flavors and textures—creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and a crunchy exterior—make these bites an irresistible snack. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 strips bacon
- 1/3 cup scallions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups Italian bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and Pepper
- Ranch or Honey Mustard for dipping
Directions:
- Take potatoes out of the fridge and let sit for a few minutes to remove the chill. Meanwhile, shred the cheese, chop scallions, and finely dice the cooked bacon. Add potatoes and flour to a large mixing bowl, stirring to combine. Add cheese, bacon, and scallions. Roll heaping tablespoons of the mixture into small balls. If the mixture doesn’t hold its shape, add more flour for stability. Repeat until done.
- Heat oil in a medium saucepan (or fryer) over medium/medium-high heat to about 350-375 degrees. Whisk the egg into a small bowl and season with salt and pepper. Place bread crumbs in an additional bowl. Dip each ball in egg, then roll in bread crumbs until fully coated. Set aside on a sheet pan.
- Test oil with one ball. The oil should bubble, and the ball should take about 1-2 minutes to brown and cook through. Adjust the temperature accordingly. Once ready, add potato balls in small batches and fry for 1-2 minutes, depending on size. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat until done.
- Allow to cool for a minute or two and serve with your choice of dipping sauce.
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Storage
Best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven for a crispy texture.
Recipe Tips
Experiment with different cheese varieties or add a pinch of your favorite herbs to customize the flavor profile of these delectable potato bites.”