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Easy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites: Best Party Appetizer

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Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these loaded mashed potato bites are packed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. They’re the perfect party appetizer that comes together in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cold mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 strips)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your workspace. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up your coating station: one shallow bowl with beaten egg, one with panko mixed with melted butter and Parmesan, and one with flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix the potato base. In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and the beaten egg. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or the potatoes get gummy. The mixture should be thick and hold together when pressed. If it feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
  3. Shape the bites. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Roll them gently between your palms to smooth them out. This should make about 20 to 24 bites. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Chill them. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 20 minutes, or the refrigerator for 45 minutes. The bites need to be firm before coating, or they’ll fall apart.
  5. Coat the bites. Working in batches, roll each chilled bite first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip in the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off. Finally, roll in the panko mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick. Return coated bites to the baking sheet.
  6. Preheat and bake. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bites for 18 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy all over. Let them rest on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.
  7. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with extra chopped green onions and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream. If desired, drizzle with hot sauce.

Notes

Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s crucial for the bites to hold their shape. Use cold, thick mashed potatoes for best results. For extra crunch, double coat the bites. You can prepare through step 4 up to 24 hours in advance. To freeze, freeze unbaked coated bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake from frozen at 400°F for 25-28 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato bites, loaded potato bites, party appetizer, game day snack, easy appetizer, bacon cheese potato bites

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/easy-loaded-mashed-potato-bites-best-party-appetizer/