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Crispy Loaded Cheddar Bacon Potato Cheese Sticks

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These crispy loaded cheddar bacon potato cheese sticks are the ultimate party snack, combining mashed potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy breaded coating. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or anytime you crave comfort food in finger-friendly form.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup milk (use dairy-free if needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or turkey bacon)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (substitute almond or oat flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Vegetable or canola oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)

Instructions

  1. Add chopped potatoes to a large saucepan, cover with cold water, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Drain well, then return potatoes to the pot. Mash with butter and milk until smooth and fluffy. Add more milk if needed.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and parsley to the mashed potatoes. Stir until evenly distributed. Chill mixture for 15 minutes if too soft.
  5. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of potato mixture and roll into sticks about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. Set shaped sticks on a parchment-lined tray. Dust hands with flour if mixture sticks.
  6. Set up a breading station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika in a third.
  7. Dip each potato stick in flour, then egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Chill for 10-15 minutes to firm up if needed.
  8. To fry: Heat 1 inch oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high (350°F). Fry sticks in batches, turning once, 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on a cooling rack.
  9. To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Spritz sticks with cooking spray and bake 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
  10. Sprinkle hot sticks with extra cheddar or parsley if desired. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Serve with ranch, sour cream, or spicy ketchup for dipping.

Notes

For extra crunch, double-dip sticks in egg and breadcrumbs. Chill potato mixture and shaped sticks before breading and cooking for best results. Use gluten-free flour and panko for GF version, and substitute mushrooms or peppers for bacon for vegetarian. Air-fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes for a lighter option.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato cheese sticks, cheddar bacon snack, party appetizer, crispy potato sticks, finger food, comfort food, easy snack, baked cheese sticks, fried cheese sticks, gluten-free option, vegetarian option

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