These mashed potato bites are the perfect little snacks! Made from creamy mashed potatoes and crispy on the outside, they’re super tasty and fun to eat.
Every time I make them, my family can’t get enough! They’re perfect as sides or a party treat—you might even want to keep some for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for a fluffy texture. If you don’t have russets, Yukon Golds work well too—they’re creamy and buttery.
Milk: I use whole milk for richness, but you can substitute with any milk you have on hand, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: This recipe uses sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but feel free to switch it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. You can replace it with turkey bacon or omission if you’re vegetarian. Chopped olives could add a lovely salty burst!
Chives: Fresh chives bring a mild onion flavor. Green onions or parsley are good alternatives if you don’t have chives.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Mashed Potato Bites?
The texture here is key! Start by making sure your potatoes are cooked until they’re nice and soft—this makes them easy to mash smooth. After mashing, mix in the butter and milk gradually to reach the creamy consistency you love.
- Drain the potatoes well after boiling to avoid watery bites.
- Don’t overmix your mashed potatoes; just mix until everything is combined for a light texture.
- When scooping into the muffin tin, don’t press down too hard—this airiness is what gives you that delightful bite!
How to Make Mashed Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon pieces or crumbles
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing everything together, then about 15-20 minutes baking. In no time, you’ll have delicious mashed potato bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil so the potato bites don’t stick.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Put the peeled and diced potatoes in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook until the potatoes are super tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain them well.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, mash the drained potatoes together with the butter and milk. Beat them until they’re smooth and creamy. Add some salt and pepper to taste—make it perfect for you!
4. Add Cheese and Chives:
Now, fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped fresh chives into the mashed potatoes. This adds great flavor and a pop of color!
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Scoop the creamy mashed potato mixture into the greased mini muffin tin. Fill each cup evenly and mound them slightly on top for that delicious bite!
6. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
Next, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon pieces on top of each potato bite. This will create a tasty, cheesy crust as they bake!
7. Bake Them Up:
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and the edges to get a lovely golden, crispy finish.
8. Garnish:
Once they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the rest of the chives over the top. This adds a nice touch to your bites!
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the potato bites cool a bit before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy delights as an appetizer or a fun side dish. They’re bound to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully for these bites. Just make sure to adjust the amount of milk and butter added to ensure they stay creamy and flavorful. You might want to warm them up slightly to make mixing easier.
Can I Freeze Mashed Potato Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the bites cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon entirely or use alternatives like sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor. You could also try using smoked paprika to add a hint of smokiness without the bacon.
How Do I Make These Gluten-Free?
Good news! This recipe is already naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t require any flour. Just ensure that your bacon is also gluten-free, as some processed meats may contain gluten as a filler or preservative.