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- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, preferably chilled) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - Oil for frying To make these crispy bites, start with mashed potatoes. They should be chilled for the best texture. Mixing in cheddar and Parmesan gives a rich cheese flavor. The green onions add some freshness. Garlic and onion powders give depth to the taste. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Next, you need binding and coating ingredients. Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the mixture. Breadcrumbs give that awesome crunch. Panko is best for extra crispiness. Finally, oil is key for frying. It should be hot enough to create a golden crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. You want the mixture to be smooth and even. This helps each bite have a consistent flavor. Next, use your hands to shape the mixture into small round balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for popping into your mouth. Place the balls on a plate or baking sheet. If the mixture feels too sticky, dampen your hands slightly to make shaping easier. Now, set up your breading station. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish and the beaten eggs in another. Dip each potato ball into the beaten egg first. Make sure it is fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumbs until covered. This step gives your bites a tasty, crunchy outer layer. Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil needs to be around 350°F or 175°C. Once hot, carefully add a few potato bites at a time. Don't overcrowd the pan; this helps them fry evenly. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place the bites on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Enjoy these warm as a delightful snack! To get that crispy exterior, use panko breadcrumbs. They add more crunch than regular ones. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps create a golden crust. I recommend heating the oil to about 350°F. Adjust seasonings to your taste. If you love garlic, add more garlic powder. Like it spicy? A pinch of cayenne pepper can kick it up a notch. Always taste the mixture before frying to ensure the flavors pop. For dips, spicy ketchup or ranch dressing pairs well. These dips add a nice contrast to the cheesy bites. You can also try a creamy aioli for a gourmet touch. Presentation can elevate your snack. Serve the bites in a basket lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions on top for color. This makes them look great for parties. One big mistake is overcrowding the pan. When you add too many bites, they steam instead of fry. This leads to soggy bites instead of crispy ones. Also, don’t skip letting the oil heat enough. If the oil is cold, the bites will absorb too much oil. They’ll become greasy and lose their crunchy appeal. Always check the temperature with a food thermometer for the best results. {{image_2}} You can easily make these bites unique by adding spices or herbs. Try adding: - 1 teaspoon paprika for a smoky taste - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for a fresh flavor Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste. You might also swap out the cheese. Instead of cheddar, use mozzarella for a gooey center. Or try feta for a tangy kick. You can even mix different cheeses together for a flavor explosion. If you want a lighter option, you can bake these bites instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. This method cuts down on oil and calories. Another great option is using an air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook the bites for about 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without all the oil. To keep your crispy mashed potato cheese bites fresh, store them right. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture away. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. After that, they may lose their crispiness. Reheating these bites can be tricky. You want to keep them crispy. The best method is to use an oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10 minutes. This keeps the outside crunchy. You can use a microwave, but they may get soggy. If you must use a microwave, heat them in short bursts. Check every 30 seconds until warm. Remember, this may not keep them crispy. Yes, you can prepare these bites ahead of time. Make the mixture and form the balls. Place them on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. You can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This keeps them fresh and ready for frying. If you want to freeze them, lay them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. If you run out of breadcrumbs, don’t worry! You can use crushed crackers or cornflakes. Both options give a nice crunch. For a gluten-free choice, try ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. These substitutes work well and keep the bites crispy and tasty. You can tell the bites are done when they turn golden brown. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon to check one. If it feels firm and crispy, it’s ready! The inside should be warm and cheesy. Enjoy your delicious bites! Crispy mashed potato cheese bites are a fun and tasty treat. You blend mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, then shape and fry them. Follow the steps for mixing, forming, and frying, and you’ll get a perfect result. Remember, perfect texture comes from tips like proper oil temperature and avoiding overcrowding. Try different flavors and cooking methods like air frying. Store leftovers the right way for tasty bites later. With these ideas, you can impress at any gathering. Enjoy making these bites!

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Bites

Indulge in these Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Bites, the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion! This easy recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with melty cheddar and Parmesan, delivering an irresistible crunch. Discover step-by-step instructions that guarantee a golden and flavorful treat, ready in just 30 minutes. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and impress your guests with your cooking skills!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, preferably chilled)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

2 large eggs, beaten

Oil for frying

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

    Using your hands, form the mixture into small round balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.

      Set up your breading station: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish and the beaten eggs in another.

        Dip each potato ball first into the beaten egg, ensuring it is completely coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat for all potato balls.

          Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot (approximately 350°F or 175°C), carefully add a few potato bites at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

            Using a slotted spoon, remove the bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

              Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the crispy cheese bites in a basket lined with parchment paper and a side of spicy ketchup or ranch dressing for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped green onions for a pop of color.