Are you on the hunt for a comforting yet unique snack? Look no further than these irresistible loaded mashed potato bites! Picture all the deliciousness of a loaded baked potato but transformed into a crispy, bite-sized delight. Bursting with sharp cheddar, savory bacon bits, and fresh green onions, these little treats are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Serve them while they’re warm with a generous dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green onions on top. These bites make for an excellent appetizer, a side dish, or simply a fun way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.

Why You’ll Love These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Perfect Party Snack: These bite-sized delights are perfect for gatherings, allowing your guests to enjoy them while mingling!

Crispy Yet Creamy Texture: The combination of a crunchy panko coating with a creamy, fluffy center makes it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!).

Flavorful Harmony: Each bite is a perfect mix of sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and velvety potatoes, accented by the fresh touch of green onions.

Creative Use of Leftovers: This is a fantastic way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes!

Ingredients

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy base of your bites, cold mashed potatoes work best as they hold their shape better.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a deliciously rich and tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that enhances the overall taste.
• Green Onions: Offer a fresh, slightly spicy note.
• Egg: Binds the mixture together, making it easier to form the bites.
• Seasoning: Garlic powder enriches the flavor, while salt and pepper highlight all the ingredients.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the egg wash stick to the potato balls.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs give the bites an extra crispy and light texture.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying, contributing to that golden-brown color.

How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Though these bites require a bit of time to prepare, the reward is well worth it!

1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your cold mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s combined nicely.

2. Shape the Bites

Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball or flatten it into a small patty. Place the shaped bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for about 20-30 minutes to firm up.

3. Coat the Bites

Create a breading station with one plate of flour, one bowl of beaten eggs, and another plate for breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball in the flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

4. Fry the Bites

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches 350°F. Fry the potato bites in batches for 2-3 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Garnish and Serve

Arrange your crispy bites on a serving platter. Top each one with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions, plus any additional bacon or cheese you desire!

Tips for the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Enhance your cooking experience and outcome with these useful tips:

• Chill the Potatoes: Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping and better texture.
• Flour Your Hands: Dust your hands with flour to prevent the potato mixture from sticking while you form the balls.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add tasty ingredients like chopped jalapeños, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs such as parsley for extra flavor.
• Try Different Dippers: Pair these bites with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, garlic aioli, cheese sauce, or spicy chipotle mayo.
• Make Ahead: You can form and bread the bites a day in advance and refrigerate them, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Go Healthier with Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, lightly spray the bites with cooking spray, and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Oven Option: If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the bites on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway.

How to Store Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Keep your delicious bites fresh with these storing tips:

To Store

Place any cooled potato bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To avoid sticking, layer parchment paper between them.

To Freeze

Arrange the uncooked breaded bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (approximately 2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for storage up to 3 months. Fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

To Reheat

For the best results, place the bites on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving them as it can make them soggy.