Indulge your taste buds with a mouthwatering treat that will elevate your snack game – Loaded Potato Bites! These delectable bites are crafted from the goodness of leftover mashed potatoes, mixed with savory ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh scallions. Coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection, these bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will take you through the simple yet flavorful journey of preparing Loaded Potato Bites that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients: To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 strips of bacon
- 1/3 cup scallions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups Italian bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
- Salt and Pepper
- Ranch or Honey Mustard for dipping
Preparations: Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these delightful Loaded Potato Bites:
- Prepare the Potato Mixture:
- Take the leftover mashed potatoes out of the fridge and let them sit for a few minutes to remove the chill.
- While the potatoes are adjusting to room temperature, shred the cheddar cheese, chop the scallions, and finely dice the bacon strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes and flour, ensuring a thorough mix. Add in the shredded cheese, chopped scallions, and diced bacon. Stir the mixture well.
- Take a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a small ball. If the mixture doesn’t hold its shape, incorporate a bit more flour to enhance the stability. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
- Prepare for Frying:
- Heat oil in a medium saucepan or fryer over medium to medium-high heat, reaching a temperature of 350-375 degrees.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl and season it with salt and pepper.
- Place Italian bread crumbs in an additional bowl.
- Dip each potato ball in the beaten egg and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Set aside the coated balls on a sheet pan.
- Frying Process:
- Test the oil temperature by adding one potato ball. The oil should bubble around the potato, and the ball should take 1-2 minutes to brown and cook through.
- Adjust the oil temperature accordingly. If it takes longer to brown, increase the heat; if it browns too quickly, lower the temperature.
- Once the oil is ready, add the potato balls in small batches and fry for 1-2 minutes, depending on their size.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the golden-brown potato bites and place them on a paper-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat this process until all the potato bites are fried.
Conclusion: In conclusion, Loaded Potato Bites are a culinary masterpiece that combines the comforting essence of mashed potatoes with the bold flavors of cheese, bacon, and scallions. The crispy exterior achieved through the breadcrumb coating adds an irresistible texture to each bite. Whether served as a party appetizer or a delightful snack, these Loaded Potato Bites are sure to impress your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. Enjoy the flavorful journey of crafting these bites and share the joy with friends and family as you savor every golden, crunchy moment.
