Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

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Mashed potatoes are already a comfort food staple, but when you take them to the next level by turning them into crispy, cheesy bites, something magical happens. Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are everything you love about a hearty, homestyle side dish rolled up into a bite-sized, golden treat. Perfect as an appetizer, game day snack, or even a fun side for dinner, they deliver crunchy edges with a soft, creamy center that melts in your mouth.

These little bites are packed with flavor from ingredients like bacon, cheese, and green onions, and can easily be adapted to what you have on hand. Got leftover mashed potatoes from last night? Even better. These are the kind of bites that disappear fast, so you might want to make a double batch from the start.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Mashed Potato Bites Recipe

These bites are the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort food. They’re easy to make, especially if you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, and they freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. The texture contrast of crispy outside and fluffy inside is simply addictive. Whether you’re hosting or just making a fun snack for the family, these are guaranteed to be a hit.

Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes for These Bites?

Yes, you can. While fresh mashed potatoes give a richer flavor and creamier texture, good-quality instant mashed potatoes work just fine in a pinch. Just make sure they’re thick and fully cooled before mixing in your add-ins. The key is to have a sturdy mixture that holds its shape when rolled into balls.

Ingredients for the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

You don’t need much to make these bites, and the ingredients are all about layering flavor and creating that irresistible bite. Each ingredient serves a purpose, from creaminess to crunch and all the savory notes in between.

• Mashed potatoes
• Cooked bacon
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Cooking oil spray or oil for frying

How To Make the Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Step 1: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and one beaten egg. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Shape Your Bites

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes. This helps them firm up.

Step 3: Coat and Crisp

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference. Then either air fry at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, bake in the oven at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, or deep fry until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for that perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve and Store These Potato Bites

This recipe makes about 20 to 24 bites and serves 6 to 8 people as a snack or appetizer. If you have leftovers (a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep them crispy. You can also freeze the uncooked bites for up to 2 months—just thaw and cook when ready.

What to Serve With Loaded Mashed Potato Bites?

Sliders or Mini Burgers

The perfect pairing for bite-sized comfort food.

Buffalo Wings

Spicy wings meet creamy potato bites for a flavor explosion.

Creamy Corn Dip

Dip your bites in this rich, cheesy dip for double the indulgence.

Cajun Potato Soup

Double down on the potato love with a creamy, spicy soup on the side Cajun Potato Soup.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Balance the crispy bites with sweet and savory roasted chicken Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs.

Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

Amp up the game day platter with these soft, cheesy sliders Cheeseburger Sliders.

Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes

The smoky flavor and crunchy crust work beautifully alongside the soft mashed potato center Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes.

Want More Potato Side Ideas?

If you love these Loaded Mashed Potato Bites, you might fall for these next:

• Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy, creamy kick.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn if you like sweet and savory sides.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes when you want your side dish baked right in.
• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions for a crispy classic.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli as a one-pan dinner full of cozy comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack board so it’s ready for your next gathering or lazy Sunday craving.

Tell me how your batch turned out! Did you use leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch? Any creative dips you served them with?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, snacks, and hearty dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites are your new go-to for comfort food that feels fancy but is secretly simple. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, they’re versatile, easy to freeze, and even easier to devour. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again.

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