Imagine the ultimate comfort food mashup that combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese in one irresistible bite-sized package. That’s exactly what these Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs deliver! These little gems take your leftover mashed potatoes and transform them into something truly extraordinary.
Perfect for game day snacking, holiday appetizers, or just because you deserve a treat, these crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside potato bombs will have everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of smoky bacon, sharp cheese, and herb-infused potatoes creates flavor explosions in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into something exciting
- Crispy exterior with a creamy, cheesy interior creates perfect texture contrast
- Can be prepped ahead and fried just before serving
- Customizable with different cheese and herb combinations
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adult gatherings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 egg
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ cup dry bread crumbs
- Cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch chunks (1 chunk per bomb)
- Bacon slices (1 slice per bomb)
- Oil for frying (canola recommended)
- Sour cream, for dipping
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Combine mashed potatoes, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well mixed.
- Scoop some mashed potato mixture, wrap it around a cheddar chunk, and roll into a ball.
- Roll each potato ball in dry bread crumbs until evenly coated.
- Wrap each bomb with one slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Heat oil to 350°F. Fry bombs (1-2 at a time) until golden brown and bacon is crispy.
- Let them drain on paper towels. Remove toothpicks and serve warm with sour cream for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture
- Try different cheese varieties like pepper jack, smoked gouda, or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles
- Make them extra indulgent by adding a small cube of cheese in the center of each ball for a melty surprise
- For a lighter version, air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, spraying with oil before cooking
- Use leftover loaded baked potato toppings like sour cream, green onions, and bacon bits for extra flavor
- Make mini versions for elegant party appetizers by forming smaller, one-tablespoon sized balls
Serving Suggestions
These Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are delicious on their own but reach new heights when paired with dipping sauces. Try serving with ranch dressing, sour cream, sriracha mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce. For a complete meal, pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
They make excellent appetizers for game day spreads alongside wings and sliders, or serve as a side dish with grilled steaks or roasted chicken for a memorable dinner.
Notes
- The potato mixture should be cold and firm before breading for best results
- Oil temperature is crucial – too hot and they’ll burn before cooking through, too cool and they’ll absorb too much oil
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness
- The bombs are done when they float to the surface and turn golden brown
FAQs
Can I freeze these potato bombs?
Yes! Freeze them after breading but before frying. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Prepare according to package directions, but make them slightly thicker than normal by reducing the liquid slightly. Cool completely before forming into balls.
How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Make sure your potato mixture is well-chilled, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the balls. A double coating (repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps) can also help create a more secure crust.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Microwaving is faster but will make them soft rather than crispy. Air fryers work wonderfully for reheating at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
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