The tantalizing aroma of golden-brown bites crackling in hot oil has a way of drawing people in from across the room. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites—a playful twist on leftover mashed potatoes that transforms them into an irresistible comfort food everyone will adore. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these delightful morsels are a celebration of textures, featuring a crispy exterior that encases a creamy, cheesy center with zesty jalapeños and smoky bacon. Not only are they a hit at gatherings, but they also offer a delightful way to revamp your leftover mashed potatoes into something fun and satisfying. Ready to whip up these scrumptious bites? Let’s get started! Why Are Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Amazing? Crispy Perfection: Imagine biting into a golden-brown shell that gives way to a creamy, cheesy interior—these bites are the ultimate comfort food. Flavorful Ingredients: With zesty jalapeños and smoky bacon, each bite is a flavor explosion. Easy to Make: This recipe transforms leftover mashed potatoes into something genuinely fun without a lot of fuss. Versatile Treat: Whether served at a party or as a delightful side, they’re sure to please any crowd. Quick Prep Time: Ready in just a few simple steps, you can spend more time enjoying and less time cooking! For a refreshing pairing, try these bites with a zesty dip, similar to my Sweet Potato Breakfast for a balanced meal. Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Ingredients Discover the essential ingredients for these delightful snacks that everyone will love! For the Potato Mixture Large Russet potatoes – The base of the recipe; provides the perfect texture and taste. Any starchy potato can be used as a substitute. Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; using unsalted butter allows for precise seasoning. Sour cream – Contributes tang and moisture; Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat substitute. Jalapeno – Infuses heat and flavor; omit for a milder taste or use a sweet pepper for less spice. Bacon – Delivers a smoky flavor and crunch; consider turkey bacon for a leaner option or remove it for vegetarian preparation. Sharp cheddar cheese & Monterey jack cheese – Elevate the richness and flavor profile; feel free to substitute with any favorite melty cheese. Sliced green onions – Add freshness and a delightful crunch; chives work well for a milder flavor. For the Coating All-purpose flour – Provides a base for coating; use gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free. Buttermilk – Adds moisture to the coating; opt for regular milk or a dairy-free alternative if needed. Egg – Helps bind the coating together; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option. Panko breadcrumbs – Ensure an ultra-crispy texture; consider regular breadcrumbs but note they won’t be as crunchy. For Frying Vegetable oil – Ideal for frying; can also use canola or peanut oil for a different flavor. Slap Ya Mama seasoning – Adds a unique seasoning blend; you can swap it with Cajun seasoning for a similar effect. Black pepper & garlic salt – Essential for depth of flavor; adjust according to your spice preference. With these ingredients on hand, you’re just steps away from creating mouthwatering Loaded Mashed Potato Bites that will surely make you smile! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Step 1: Prepare Potatoes Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Peel and dice the large Russet potatoes into uniform chunks, then carefully add them and the chopped jalapeños to the boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the mixture and return the potatoes to the pot to steam off excess moisture for a few minutes. Step 2: Mix Ingredients Once slightly cooled, add butter and sour cream to the warm potatoes. Then, incorporate the black pepper, garlic salt, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, both cheeses, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Use a potato masher or fork to blend everything until well combined while ensuring you maintain some nice textures. This mixture is the star of your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites! Step 3: Shape Balls Once the potato mixture is cooled enough to handle, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to scoop out portions and roll them into 1-inch balls. Arrange the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing them to firm up slightly for easier coating. This will help your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites hold their shape while frying. Step 4: Coating Prep In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) over medium heat. Meanwhile, in a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined. This mixture will be essential for coating, ensuring that your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Step 5: Bread the Bites Begin the breading process by rolling each potato ball in all-purpose flour, ensuring they are well coated. Next, dip the floured balls into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, enclose each ball in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are now ready for frying! Step 6: Fry Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Enjoy the enticing aroma as they cool slightly! Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites and make them uniquely yours! Bacon-Free: Swap out bacon for cooked sausage to give them a new flavor profile. Turkey sausage works well for a leaner option, keeping them just as delicious. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to elevate the flavor. These vibrant greens not only provide taste but also a pop of color to your bites. Spicy Twist: For those who crave heat, mix in some diced serrano peppers along with jalapeños. This fiery variation will awaken your taste buds and add a delightful kick. Cheese Hues: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor. Cheese lovers will appreciate the creativity, yielding bites that are extra indulgent. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute butter and sour cream with plant-based versions for a dairy-free option. Coconut cream can impart a creamy aspect while keeping it all vegan-friendly. Gluten-Free Goodness: Switch all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to make this recipe accessible for everyone. Your guests won’t even notice the difference in taste or texture! Vegetarian Heaven: Omit bacon and use smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor. The pimento gives a surprising depth that even meat lovers will enjoy. Zesty Switch: Replace traditional seasoning with a blend of taco seasoning for an adventurous twist. Serve with salsa or guacamole for a festive flavor pairing, reminiscent of my Garlic Butter Steak Bites or delicious Cheesecake Bites. Embrace these variations, and let your taste buds lead the way to new culinary adventures! Expert Tips for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Fry in Batches: Frying too many bites at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites. Fry in small batches for the best crispness. Cool the Mixture: Allow the potato mixture to cool enough before shaping to prevent burns and ensure the balls hold their shape during frying. Check for Freshness: When using leftovers, ensure your mashed potatoes are fresh without any unwanted ingredients that might alter the flavor of your bites. Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, air-fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to achieve even cooking. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to swap cheeses in the recipe! Melty options like gouda or Monterey jack can elevate the flavor profile of your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites. What to Serve with Loaded Mashed Potato Bites There’s nothing like a delicious meal that brings everyone to the table, and these bites deserve the perfect companions! Creamy Ranch Dip: The cool, tangy flavors of ranch contrast beautifully with the crispy bites, enhancing their richness in every dip. Zesty Sriracha Mayo: A spicy kick brightens the plate, making each bite a delightful adventure for your taste buds! Just stir some sriracha into mayo for that extra flair. Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances out the richness of the bites, creating a harmonious meal experience. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries juxtaposes the savory flavors of the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites, adding texture and variety to your plate. Steamed Asparagus: Fresh and lightly seasoned, asparagus provides a nutritious and vibrant side that complements the comfort of the bites. Sparkling Lemonade: This effervescent drink brightens the palate, making it perfect for a festive gathering, while also cleansing it between bites. Chocolate Chip Cookies: A classic dessert to round out the meal, the sweetness of warm cookies pairs wonderfully after the savory indulgence of the bites. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors offer a delightful accompaniment, perfect for sopping up any dips or just enjoying alongside the bites. Guacamole: Creamy and packed with flavor, guacamole provides a fresh take that works surprisingly well with the crispy goodness of the bites. Winery Red Blend: A glass of this smooth wine complements the smoky bacon in the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites and elevates your dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps (boiling the potatoes and mixing in all the ingredients). Just store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to serve, scoop the mixture into balls, coat them in flour, dip in the buttermilk mixture, and coat with panko breadcrumbs before frying. With this prep, you’ll have delicious, crispy bites with minimal last-minute effort! Storage Tips for Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your Loaded Mashed Potato Bites again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain their crispiness. Room Temperature: If serving warm, keep them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe FAQs How do I select the right potatoes? When choosing potatoes, I recommend using large Russet potatoes as they provide the perfect texture for the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites. Look for potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If Russets aren’t available, any starchy potato like Yukon Golds will also work well! How should I store the leftover Loaded Mashed Potato Bites? After enjoying your bites, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. To keep them fresh, ensure they are completely cooled before sealing the container. If you like to meal prep, you can freeze the bites as well. Can I freeze Loaded Mashed Potato Bites? Absolutely! To freeze them, first, place the uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, no need to thaw—just fry or air fry them straight from the freezer! What if my potato mixture is too sticky? If you find that your potato mixture is too sticky and difficult to shape into balls, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll. You can also lightly coat your hands with flour to prevent sticking while shaping. Are Loaded Mashed Potato Bites pet-friendly? While your furry friends might enjoy the smell, it’s essential to keep Loaded Mashed Potato Bites away from pets. Ingredients like onions and bacon can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to stick to simple, pet-safe snacks if you want to share with your four-legged companions. Can I substitute any of the ingredients for dietary reasons? Definitely! This recipe is quite flexible. You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-fat option or turkey bacon for a leaner version. For gluten-free bites, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free. The more variations, the merrier! Loaded Mashed Potato Bites That Will Make You Smile Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are a delightful twist on leftovers, featuring a crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior that everyone will adore. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 bitesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potato Mixture2 large Russet potatoes The base of the recipe; provides the perfect texture and taste.2 tbsp Butter Adds richness and creaminess.1/2 cup Sour cream Contributes tang and moisture.1 medium Jalapeno Infuses heat and flavor.4 slices Bacon Delivers a smoky flavor and crunch.1/2 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Elevates the richness and flavor profile.1/2 cup Monterey jack cheese Pairs well for added creaminess.1/4 cup Sliced green onions Adds freshness and a delightful crunch.For the Coating1 cup All-purpose flour Provides a base for coating.1/2 cup Buttermilk Adds moisture to the coating.1 large Egg Helps bind the coating together.1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Ensure an ultra-crispy texture.For Frying4 cups Vegetable oil Ideal for frying.1 tbsp Slap Ya Mama seasoning Adds a unique seasoning blend.1/2 tsp Black pepper Essential for depth of flavor.1/2 tsp Garlic salt Adds extra flavor. Equipment Large PotBaking SheetDeep skillet or frying panshallow bowlPotato masher or fork Method PreparationBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Peel and dice the large Russet potatoes into uniform chunks, then carefully add them and the chopped jalapeños to the boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the mixture and return the potatoes to the pot to steam off excess moisture for a few minutes.Once slightly cooled, add butter and sour cream to the warm potatoes. Then, incorporate the black pepper, garlic salt, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, both cheeses, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Use a potato masher or fork to blend everything until well combined while ensuring you maintain some nice textures.Once the potato mixture is cooled enough to handle, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to scoop out portions and roll them into 1-inch balls. Arrange the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing them to firm up slightly for easier coating.In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) over medium heat. Meanwhile, in a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined.Begin the breading process by rolling each potato ball in all-purpose flour, then dip the floured balls into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, enclose each ball in panko breadcrumbs.Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Nutrition Serving: 4bitesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
