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Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites: Easy Appetizer Recipe

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These crispy loaded mashed potato bites are the perfect appetizer—golden-brown and crunchy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, packed with bacon and chives. They’re a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead friendly finger food that disappears at every party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cold mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cooked bacon bits (about 6 strips)
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying (about 3-4 cups)
  • Sour cream for serving (optional)
  • Extra chopped chives for garnish (optional)
  • Hot sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, egg yolk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Shape the bites: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture into firm balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter (golf ball size). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get about 20 to 24 bites.
  3. Chill the bites: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, until completely firm.
  4. Set up breading station: In three shallow bowls, place flour in the first, beaten eggs with 1 tablespoon water in the second, and panko mixed with Parmesan in the third.
  5. Bread the bites: Working with a few at a time, roll each bite in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then roll in panko mixture, pressing gently. Return to baking sheet.
  6. Heat the oil: In a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.
  7. Fry the bites: Carefully lower 4-5 bites into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crispy (total 4-6 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to turn halfway.
  8. Drain and season: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
  9. Repeat and serve: Continue frying in batches, letting oil return to 350°F between batches. Serve immediately with sour cream, extra chives, and hot sauce if desired.

Notes

For best results, use cold, thick mashed potatoes. Chill the bites twice—once before breading and once after—to ensure they hold their shape. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for crispy, non-greasy bites. Work in small batches to avoid overcrowding. For a baked version, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway. For air fryer, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato bites, crispy potato bites, loaded potato bites, appetizer, party food, game day snack, fried potatoes, cheesy potato bites, bacon potato bites

Find it online: https://lolaspoon.com/crispy-loaded-mashed-potato-bites-easy-appetizer-recipe/