Looking for a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes? These loaded potato bites are a perfect solution. Packed with cheese, bacon, and scallions, they’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 strips bacon
- 1/3 cup scallions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups Italian bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and Pepper
- Ranch or Honey Mustard for dipping
Directions:
- Begin by allowing the mashed potatoes to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to remove the chill. While they sit, shred the cheese, chop the scallions, and cook the bacon until crispy, then dice it finely. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes and flour, then add the cheese, bacon, and scallions. If the mixture is too soft, add a little more flour to stiffen it. Roll heaping tablespoons of the mixture into small balls using your hands.
- Heat oil in a medium saucepan or fryer over medium to medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and season it with salt and pepper. Place the bread crumbs in another bowl. Dip each potato ball into the egg, then roll it in the bread crumbs until fully coated. Set aside on a sheet pan.
- Test the oil temperature by frying one potato ball. It should bubble when submerged and take 1-2 minutes to brown and cook through. Adjust the temperature as needed. Once the oil is ready, fry the potato balls in small batches for 1-2 minutes, depending on their size. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper-lined plate. Repeat until all the potato balls are fried.
- Allow the potato bites to cool for a minute or two before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or honey mustard.
Tips:
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too wet; if they are, add more flour to achieve the right consistency for shaping.
- Maintain the oil temperature within the specified range to ensure the potato bites cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
- Adjust the seasoning of the egg mixture according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
These loaded potato bites are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy them dipped in your favorite sauce for a delicious treat!
1. Can I Use Freshly Made Mashed Potatoes Instead of Leftovers?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed to use up leftover mashed potatoes, you can certainly make a fresh batch specifically for these potato bites. Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned and not overly wet to maintain the right consistency for shaping the balls. If your fresh mashed potatoes are too soft, you may need to add a bit more flour to achieve the desired texture.
2. Can I Prepare Loaded Potato Bites in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare these potato bites ahead of time for convenience. After shaping the potato balls and coating them in breadcrumbs, you can refrigerate them on a baking sheet until you’re ready to fry. This makes them a great option for parties or gatherings where you want to minimize last-minute preparation. Just be sure to fry them when you’re ready to serve to ensure they stay crispy.
3. Can I Make Loaded Potato Bites Without Frying?
While frying gives these potato bites their irresistible crispy exterior, you can also bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with oil to help them brown and crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Keep in mind that the texture won’t be exactly the same as fried, but they’ll still be delicious.
4. How Do I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
If you have any leftover potato bites (which might be rare because they’re so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the potato bites on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may not retain their crispiness as well.
Additional Tips:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack can all add a tasty twist to these potato bites.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add diced sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve these potato bites as a side dish alongside burgers or sandwiches, or enjoy them as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning in the egg mixture with your preferred herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a potato masher or fork to break up any lumps in the mashed potatoes before adding the other ingredients.