Name: Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

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Introduction

Loaded mashed potato bites are a fun and tasty way to enjoy classic comfort food in a crispy, bite-sized form. These golden, cheesy morsels packed with bacon and chives are perfect for parties, snacks, or a delicious appetizer.

The image shows a stack of six crispy golden-brown fried bites on a white plate, each about two layers thick. The bottom layer is light and fluffy with a creamy white inside peeking through, while the outer layer is crunchy and uneven with a rough texture, coated in browned breadcrumbs. Small pieces of dark reddish-brown bacon bits and finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top and around the bites, adding color contrast. The bites are closely packed, with the focus on the front stack and the background slightly blurred. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 large egg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
Oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Step 2: Add the egg to the mixture and stir until everything is well blended and holds together.
Step 3: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. If the mixture feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
Step 4: Roll each ball first in flour, then coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, dip the floured balls into beaten egg before coating with breadcrumbs again.
Step 5: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Fry the potato bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 7: Serve the loaded mashed potato bites hot, accompanied by sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms for flavor.
Use seasoned breadcrumbs for a more flavorful crust, or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the coating for a smoky twist.
If you don’t want to fry, bake the bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Chilling the mixture before shaping helps the bites hold their shape better during frying.

Storage

Store any leftover potato bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A close-up view of nine golden brown baked potato puffs arranged closely on a round white plate. Each puff has a slightly crispy and crunchy texture on the outside with a soft, creamy, and slightly uneven surface inside, showing a mix of light yellow and white tones. Small bits of browned edges add texture and darker golden patches, while finely chopped green herbs are scattered on top of each puff, enhancing their fresh look. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, visible at the plate edges and in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work well, but make sure they are fully cooled before mixing to help the bites hold their shape.

What can I serve with loaded mashed potato bites?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for added flavor.