These golden crispy cheesy potato bites are an irresistible snack that combines the perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or a snack, these little bites are sure to be a hit. They’re crispy on the outside, cheesy and soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re easy to make and super customizable, making them a go-to dish for almost any occasion!
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (use leftover or fresh)
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
½ cup flour (for coating)
1 extra egg, beaten (for coating)
½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Oil for frying (or bake/air-fry for a healthier version)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, I combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 beaten egg. I mix it all up well until everything is fully incorporated.
Shape the Bites: I scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into small balls or flatten them slightly into nuggets. Then, I place them on a tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes—this helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Coat for Crispiness: I set up three bowls for the coating:
Flour
Beaten egg
Breadcrumbs I roll each potato bite in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Cook the Potato Bites:
Option 1: Frying (Crispiest!): I heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry the potato bites in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. I then remove them and drain on a paper towel.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier): I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, I place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden.
Option 3: Air Fryer (Crispy & Light!): I preheat my air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the bites in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serve & Enjoy! I serve these hot with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, marinara, or spicy mayo. They’re best enjoyed fresh and crispy!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Make it Spicy: I can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
Different Cheeses: I can swap out the cheddar and Parmesan for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor.
Loaded Version: For an extra indulgent bite, I can add bacon bits to the potato mixture.
Storage/Reheating
These golden crispy cheesy potato bites are best enjoyed fresh, but I can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend placing them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to get them crispy again. If I’m reheating them in the microwave, they’ll still taste great, but they won’t be as crispy.
FAQs
Can I make these potato bites ahead of time?
Yes! I can prepare the potato mixture and shape the bites in advance, then refrigerate them until I’m ready to cook them. This can save time if I’m serving them at a gathering or party.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
I prefer using mashed potatoes for their creamy texture, but I could also try using other types of cooked potatoes, such as russet or Yukon Gold, as long as they’re mashed smoothly.
Can I bake these potato bites instead of frying them?
Yes! I actually love baking or air-frying these for a healthier option, and they turn out just as delicious and crispy.
Can I freeze the potato bites?
Definitely! After forming the bites and before frying or baking them, I can place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 2-3 hours. Then, I transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. I can cook them straight from the freezer; just adjust the cooking time.
What’s the best way to serve these?
These bites are super versatile! I love serving them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, spicy mayo, or sour cream, depending on what I’m in the mood for.
Conclusion
Golden Crispy Cheesy Potato Bites are the ultimate treat for any occasion. They’re deliciously cheesy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and completely customizable to fit any flavor preferences. Whether I fry, bake, or air-fry them, they always come out perfectly. I’ll definitely be making these again—they’re a snack that never disappoints.
Recipe:
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Golden Crispy Cheesy Potato Bites
Golden Crispy Cheesy Potato Bites are the perfect combination of crispy and cheesy, making them a delicious snack or appetizer. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a warm, cheesy center, these bites are easy to make and highly customizable. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Dipped in marinara sauce, ranch, or spicy mayo, these potato bites will satisfy all your cravings.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (use leftover or fresh)
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
½ cup flour (for coating)
1 extra egg, beaten (for coating)
½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Oil for frying (or bake/air-fry for a healthier version)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 beaten egg. Mix until fully combined.
-
Shape the Bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls or flatten them slightly into nuggets. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
-
Coat for Crispiness: Set up three bowls for coating:
- Flour
- Beaten egg
- Breadcrumbs Roll each potato bite in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
-
Cook the Potato Bites:
- Option 1: Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry potato bites for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Option 2: Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Option 3: Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place bites in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
-
Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo.
Notes
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for best results.
Freezing: Freeze the formed bites on a baking sheet for 2-3 hours, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook straight from the freezer and adjust cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers, Snacks, Side Dish
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
