There are few things more satisfying than taking leftover mashed potatoes and turning them into something completely irresistible. These Bacon Cheddar Mash Potato Bites are exactly that. Imagine creamy, buttery potatoes mixed with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, all fried to a golden crisp. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, and honestly, dangerously moreish.
The best part? They’re so easy to make. You can use leftover mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner or whip up a fresh batch just for these little beauties. Once the potatoes are cool, you mix in chopped green onions, crispy bacon, and plenty of cheese before forming them into small balls. Then comes the magic touch – a cube of Monterey Jack tucked right in the center. When they fry, it melts into gooey perfection.
The coating gives them that irresistible crunch: a mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese seasoned with just a hint of salt and pepper. When these hit the hot oil, they sizzle their way to golden perfection in just a few minutes. Drain them on paper towels and serve warm with ranch or mustard dressing – though honestly, they barely make it to the plate in my kitchen before someone snatches one!
These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or even as a fun side dish for family dinners. They’re bite-sized comfort food that everyone loves – think of them as mashed potatoes’ fun, crispy cousin. You can also prep them ahead of time and fry them just before serving, which makes entertaining that much easier.
So next time you’ve got leftover mash, don’t let it sit in the fridge. Turn it into these heavenly little bites of joy. Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon… what’s not to love?
Bacon Cheddar Mash Potato Bites
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- deep frying pan
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooled mashed potatoes 720g
- 1 cup cooked bacon chopped (115g)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 170g
- ½ cup chopped green onions 50g
- 3 oz Monterey Jack cheese cut into small cubes (85g)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 60g
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 45g
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg beaten
- Canola or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooled mashed potatoes, green onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
- Form into small balls, then press a cube of Monterey Jack cheese into the center of each. Roll to cover completely and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Place the beaten egg in a separate bowl.
- Dip each chilled potato ball into the egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Return to the baking sheet and repeat with remaining balls.
- Heat oil in a large pan to 350ºF / 175ºC.
- Fry 3–4 balls at a time for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and place on kitchen paper to drain any excess oil.
- Serve warm with ranch or mustard dressing for dipping.
Did you make this recipe?
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