Whether you're looking for a delicious way to use leftover mashed potatoes or whipping up a batch just for this recipe, here is the simplest solution you'll find for making mashed potato cheesy bites. They're baked instead of fried and loaded with all your favorite potato toppings, just enough to be delicious every time.
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This recipe makes about 30 bites, which fit perfectly on 2 half-size sheet pans (or regular cookie sheets).
Things You\’ll Need
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3 cups mashed potatoes
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1/2 cup sour cream
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4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
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1/2 cup bacon bits (about 4 slices of bacon finely chopped)
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2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste (depending on the flavorings of your mashed potatoes, add as much or as little as needed)
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1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley or rosemary (optional)
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with sour cream, bacon and chives.
Gently stir without over-mixing.
Step 2
Roll about 2 tablespoons of mashed potato mixture into a ball.
Push a cheese cube inside the mashed potato ball.
Then cover it up.
Step 3
Roll the mashed potato balls in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
Step 4
Place on a baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until slightly browned on top.
Tip
For even more golden color, lightly spray or drizzle each ball with olive oil before baking.
Step 5
Sprinkle with fresh herbs, if using, and serve immediately.
The cheesy center should be just melted enough to offer a gooey bite, without burning anyone in the process.
Or, Try With Shredded Cheese
Instead of cubing the cheddar cheese, shred it. Add 1 beaten egg to this mixture to maintain the shape of the balls. Then proceed with the panko coating and bake for 15 to 18 minutes.
Also serve immediately.
