Mashed Potato Bites are little balls of potato goodness that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They’re perfect as a snack or a tasty side dish!
These bites are simple to make and so fun to eat! I like to dip them in ketchup or sour cream, but you can go wild with your favorite sauces too! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: You can use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them. If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch, just follow the package instructions for a creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a great flavor, but you can switch it up with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a kick! Vegan cheese is also a good alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Bacon: If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the bacon or use crispy fried onions for crunch. You could also use turkey bacon or cooked sausage for different flavors.
Sour Cream or Ranch Dressing: Greek yogurt makes a healthy alternative to sour cream. I love using ranch dressing here, but thousand island or a spicy aioli would also taste great!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Outside?
Achieving that golden, crispy exterior is all about baking it just right. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Make sure to preheat your oven fully before baking. This helps set the outer layer quickly.
- Compact the potato mixture firmly into the muffin tin. The tighter the mixture, the crispier it will get.
- Don’t skip the step of adding extra cheese towards the end of baking. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful crust.
- Keep an eye on them after adding the cheese. Just a few minutes until it’s melted is enough.
Remember to let the bites cool for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps them firm up further, making it easier to pop them out of the tin!
Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, creamy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream or ranch dressing (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious, crispy Mashed Potato Bites ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important for ensuring even cooking. While it’s heating, lightly grease or spray a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s all fully blended together and looks nice and creamy.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Grab a spoon and fill each mini muffin tin cup with the potato mixture. Make sure to press down slightly to compact the mixture so that the bites hold together well while baking.
4. Bake Them Up:
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for those edges to be golden brown and crispy, which is exactly what you want!
5. Add Extra Cheese:
As soon as you take them out, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bite while they are still warm. This will melt and create extra cheesy goodness! Put them back in the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes to melt that cheese perfectly.
6. Serve and Top:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the bites from the muffin tin and place them on a serving plate. Give each bite a dollop of sour cream or ranch dressing for added flavor.
7. Garnish & Enjoy:
Finish by sprinkling the chopped bacon and fresh chives on top. This adds a burst of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy your delightful, crispy Mashed Potato Bites!
These bites are a fantastic snack or a great party treat! They’re crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure they are creamy and well-seasoned to get the best flavor in your bites.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these Mashed Potato Bites gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Make sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free!
Can I Store Leftover Mashed Potato Bites?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them up again!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want to skip the bacon, you can use crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You could even try adding more cheese for extra richness!
