Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Bites
These Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, bursting with rich garlic and parmesan flavors. Perfect as snacks, appetizers, or sides, they are easy to make and loved by all ages, delivering a savory, cheesy treat with a golden crunchy crust and gooey interior.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free bread crumbs)
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Base
- 2 cups smooth well-seasoned mashed potatoes (preferably day-old)
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Binding and Coating
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs (regular or gluten-free for gluten-free option)
For Cooking
- Butter or olive oil, for frying or baking
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Start with well-cooked potatoes mashed until smooth. Mix in freshly minced garlic, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper to form a flavorful and creamy base ready for shaping.
- Shape the Bites: Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Scoop and form small bite-sized balls or patties using your hands to ensure uniform shapes for even cooking.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs: Lightly beat the eggs. Dip each potato bite into the egg wash then roll thoroughly in bread crumbs to achieve a complete coating for a crispy exterior.
- Cook to Crispy Perfection: Fry the bites in hot butter or olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and crispy on all sides. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Drain and Serve Warm: Place cooked bites on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use day-old mashed potatoes for better firmness and crispiness.
- Gently fold ingredients to keep the bites tender and fluffy inside; do not overmix.
- Maintain medium-high heat when frying to prevent sogginess and excessive oil absorption.
- Refrigerate shaped bites for 20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their form.
- Experiment by mixing cheeses such as cheddar or gouda with Parmesan for added flavor complexity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: mashed potato bites, cheesy potato snacks, garlic parmesan bites, appetizer, crispy potato balls, gluten-free potato bites