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 (cold and thick); 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup cooked bacon (crumbled); 1/4 cup green onions (chopped); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large egg (lightly beaten); 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (divided); Oil for frying or baking spray

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If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s loaded with flavor, look no further than these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites. Creamy mashed potatoes get a savory makeover with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, then are fried or baked to golden perfection. Each bite is irresistibly crisp on the outside and beautifully fluffy in the center, making them perfect for parties, game days, or simply upgrading your leftover spuds into something downright addictive.

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites is in their simplicity. Every ingredient plays a starring role, adding taste, texture, or just the right pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Mashed Potatoes (2 cups, cold and thick): Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape best—perfect for forming sturdy bites that stay crisp outside and creamy inside.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into gooey pockets, giving each bite cheesy, tangy goodness.
Cooked Bacon, crumbled (1/4 cup): Brings smoky, salty crunch in every mouthful—don’t skip this if you want the “loaded” effect!
Green Onions, chopped (1/4 cup): Add freshness and a bright pop of color that lifts the rich flavors.
Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses the potato mix with subtle, savory depth.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and boosting all the other flavors.
Large Egg, lightly beaten (1): Acts as a binder, holding the mixture together so your bites don’t fall apart.
Breadcrumbs, divided (3/4 cup): Mix some in for structure and roll the outsides for that signature crispy crust.
Oil for frying or baking spray: For frying up golden bites or ensuring a crispy baked finish—choose your preferred method.

How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Step 1: Mix the Filling

Start by gathering your cold mashed potatoes in a big mixing bowl. Stir in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, fresh green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs and give everything a thorough mix. You want a cohesive, slightly stiff dough that you can form into nuggets—don’t be shy about using your hands to get it just right!

Step 2: Shape the Bites

With the filling ready, scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it gently into balls or press into little patties—whatever shape makes you happiest. Line them up on a plate or tray for the next step. If the mixture feels too loose, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Pour the remaining breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each potato ball (or patty) in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they get an even coating. This extra layer is what gives your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites their addictive, shatteringly crisp exterior.

Step 4: Cook to Crisp Perfection

Now, decide how you want to cook these irresistible bites—fry or bake! To fry, heat about half an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the bites for 2–3 minutes per side until beautifully golden and crunchy. For a lighter route, bake them at 400°F on a parchment-lined sheet, spraying each generously with cooking oil. They’ll crisp up in about 20–25 minutes—don’t forget to flip halfway.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re crisp and golden all over, let your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites rest for a few minutes on paper towels (if fried), then transfer to a platter. Serve them warm alongside tangy sour cream, ranch, or any favorite dipping sauce. Watch them disappear!

How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Garnishes

For maximum flavor and a pop of color, try topping your bites with a sprinkle of extra chopped green onions, a dusting of paprika, or even a touch of crumbled bacon. A dollop of sour cream on each bite turns them into a mini loaded baked potato in hand-held form!

Side Dishes

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are deliciously rich, so they pair well with light, fresh side dishes. Think a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even simple sliced cucumbers and carrots for a refreshing crunch on the side. They also make an excellent addition to a snack platter beside sliders or wings.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites into a fun party centerpiece by serving them on skewers, or stack them into a playful “pyramid” on a platter. For game day, nestle them in paper cones for easy grab-and-go snacking. If you’re feeling extra, drizzle with spicy aioli or top with a sprinkle of chives for restaurant-worthy flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any uneaten Loaded Mashed Potato Bites cool completely before storing. Pop them into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. They tend to keep their shape and taste even after hanging out in the fridge overnight!

Freezing

If you’re planning ahead or want to save a batch for another time, arrange the cooked, cooled bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay tasty for up to a month—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, oven or air fryer reheating is your friend. Lay the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites on a baking sheet and warm at 375°F for 8–10 minutes (flipping once), or pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore that crave-worthy crunch.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re thick and well-chilled before starting. Homemade or store-bought both work, as long as they’re not too runny.

What’s the best way to make these gluten-free?

Swap out regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure your mashed potatoes don’t contain any hidden gluten, and you’re all set!

Can I air fry Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?

Yes! Air frying produces amazingly crisp bites without extra oil. Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway—super easy and extra crispy!

Do I have to use bacon?

Nope! You can leave out the bacon for a vegetarian version or swap in sautéed mushrooms, crumbled veggie bacon, or extra cheese to keep it flavorful.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. Mix up the filling and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, shape, bread, and bake or fry as directed—perfect for prepping before a party.

Final Thoughts

I can never resist whipping up a batch of these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites, and I hope you’ll feel the same! They’re the perfect way to reinvent leftovers or just treat yourself to something scrumptiously savory. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 20–24 bites 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Packed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions, these crispy bites are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Bites:

2 cups mashed potatoes (cold and thick)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg (lightly beaten)
3/4 cup breadcrumbs (divided)
Oil for frying or baking spray

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, egg, and 1/4 cup of the breadcrumbs. Mix until well blended.
Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into small balls or patties.
Roll each ball in the remaining breadcrumbs to coat.
To fry: Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the potato bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place potato bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Serve warm with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.