Description
These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, filled with bacon and green onions for a savory snack or appetizer. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, they are breaded and fried to golden perfection, making them irresistible finger foods for parties or game days.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed 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 Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill skillet 1-2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Form Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls, making sure they hold together well to prevent falling apart during frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs for easy, organized coating.
- Bread the Potato Balls: Take each potato ball, roll it first in the flour to coat lightly, then dip into the beaten eggs to wet the surface, and finally roll it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs to cover completely. Repeat for all balls.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or fryer and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain accurate temperature for optimal frying results.
- Fry the Potato Bites: Carefully place the breaded potato balls into the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes until the outside is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried bites and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, additional sour cream, or ketchup.
Notes
- Leftover mashed potatoes work best as they are drier and hold shape better.
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy bites.
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the balls with additional egg and breadcrumb layers.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- To make it vegetarian-friendly, omit the bacon and add extra green onions or chives instead.
