Crispy Loaded Cheddar Potato Bites

These bite-sized potato appetizers are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun side dish.

Yield

• 24–30 potato bites
• Serves 6–8

Preparation Time

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Cook: 35–40 minutes
• Total: 55–60 minutes

Ingredients

For the potato mixture

• 2 lb (900 g) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
• 1½ cups (170 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For coating

• 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Optional toppings

• Extra cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped chives
• Crumbled bacon
• Jalapeño slices

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the potatoes

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender.
4. Drain thoroughly.

Step 2: Make the filling

1. Return potatoes to the warm pot.
2. Mash until smooth.
3. Add:
   • Butter
   • Sour cream
   • Cheddar cheese
   • Bacon
   • Green onions
   • Garlic powder
   • Onion powder
   • Salt and pepper
4. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Chill

1. Transfer mixture to a bowl.
2. Refrigerate for 30–45 minutes.
3. Chilling makes the mixture easier to shape.

Step 4: Prepare coating

In a shallow bowl combine:

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Paprika
• Melted butter

Mix until evenly coated.

Step 5: Shape the bites

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of potato mixture.
2. Roll into balls about 1½ inches (4 cm) wide.
3. Coat each ball thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Lightly spray the potato bites with cooking spray.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Bake until golden brown and crispy.

Optional Extra-Cheesy Finish

During the last 3 minutes of baking:

1. Sprinkle additional cheddar on top.
2. Return to the oven until melted.

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Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
2. Arrange bites in a single layer.
3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Cook until golden and crisp.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with:

• Ranch dressing
• Sour cream
• Spicy aioli
• Buffalo sauce
• Cheese sauce

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Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

• Freeze uncooked or cooked bites for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Oven: 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Air fryer: 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes.