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Golden-brown fried mashed potato balls beautifully arranged on a simple white plate under natural daylight.

Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites

Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Bites feature perfectly fried, golden-brown potato balls with a fluffy center. Topped with sour cream, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for the ultimate savory appetizer.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 20 bites
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 115
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Loaded Mashed Potato Bites
  • 2 cups cold mashed potatoes Must be thoroughly chilled
  • 1 large egg Beaten, acts as a binder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs Whisked for egg wash
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups vegetable oil For frying
  • 0.5 cup sharp yellow cheddar cheese Freshly shredded
  • 0.25 cup thick white sour cream
  • 4 strips bacon Fried crisp and finely chopped
  • 2 stalks fresh green onions Thinly sliced

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep skillet For maintaining steady frying temperatures.
  • 1 Digital oil thermometer Critical for preventing greasy or burnt bites.
  • 1 Wire Cooling Rack Essential for draining oil and retaining the crispy exterior.

Method
 

Preparation and Frying
  1. Mix your 2 cups of cold mashed potatoes with 1 large beaten egg, kosher salt, and black pepper until completely incorporated.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch small, round balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15 minutes.
  3. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with the whisked eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip into the egg wash, and press firmly into the panko until beautifully coated.
  5. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded balls in small batches for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
  6. Transfer hot bites to a wire rack. Immediately sprinkle with sharp yellow cheddar cheese shreds so they melt from residual heat.
  7. Top each bite with a dollop of thick white sour cream, chopped crispy dark-red bacon bits, and vibrant fresh green onion slices.

Notes

Always start with thoroughly chilled potatoes to prevent the bites from bursting in the hot oil.
Reheat un-garnished leftover bites in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes.