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Crispy Loaded Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs

bacon cheddar mashed potato puffs - featured image

These golden, bite-sized mashed potato puffs are loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and scallions, making them the ultimate party snack. Crunchy on the outside and creamy inside, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (about 450 g; homemade or leftover, cooled)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream (80 ml)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60 g; can use gluten-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (110 g)
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced (30 g)
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (50 g)
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (30 ml)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 24-count mini muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray. Let leftover mashed potatoes come to room temperature.
  2. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sour cream, and eggs. Whisk until smooth but do not overmix.
  3. Add flour, salt, and pepper. Stir gently with a spatula until the mixture is thick and sticky.
  4. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, and smoked paprika if using.
  5. In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  6. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out heaping tablespoons of potato mixture, roll lightly into balls, and coat each in the breadcrumb mixture.
  7. Drop each coated ball into a muffin cup, pressing gently to fit. Sprinkle extra panko on top if desired.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and crisp at the edges.
  9. Let puffs cool in the tin for 3-5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF flour and breadcrumbs. For vegetarian, omit bacon and add mushrooms or peppers. Use room temperature potatoes for best texture. Double the batch for parties—they disappear fast! If using a regular muffin tin, add 5-8 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato puffs, bacon cheddar, party snack, appetizer, comfort food, easy recipe, potato bites, finger food