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These crispy potato-cheese-bacon bundles turn yesterday's spuds into a crowd-pleasing snack that'll be gone in seconds at any party. The outer bacon shell cracks open to reveal smooth potatoes and gooey cheese inside, making each bite pure comfort food heaven.
I whipped these potato bundles up during a big game day gathering and they didn't make it to the second quarter. Now my family won't let me show up to holidays without them, especially when we've got tons of leftover mashed potatoes around.
Ingredients
- Chilled mashed potatoes: Form the smooth base and handle much better when they're cold
- Egg: Keeps everything stuck together during the cooking process
- Salt and pepper: Add flavor to the potato mix however you like it
- Dry bread crumbs: Give these bundles their amazing crunchy outside
- Cheddar cheese chunks: Melt into a wonderful gooey surprise in the middle
- Bacon slices: Wrap everything in smoky flavor and crispy goodness
- Canola oil: Perfect for frying since it won't burn or add weird tastes
- Sour cream: Makes the ideal cool, tangy dip to go alongside
- Toothpicks: Hold the bacon wrapped around each bundle
How To Make Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
- Mix your base:
- Stir together the cold mashed potatoes, egg, and seasonings in a bowl until everything's well combined. You'll want a mix that's firm but still easy to shape.
- Create your bundles:
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of potato mix and flatten it in your hand. Put a cheese chunk in the middle and fold the potato around it completely. Roll it between your hands to make a nice ball, making sure no cheese is peeking out.
- Add the crumb layer:
- Roll each potato ball in breadcrumbs, pressing them on gently for good coverage. This layer helps stop the cheese from leaking out when you fry them.
- Add bacon wrapping:
- Wrap a bacon slice around each breaded ball, letting the edges overlap a bit for full coverage. Stick a toothpick all the way through to keep the bacon in place while cooking.
- Cook until golden:
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Use a candy thermometer to check. Carefully drop 1-2 balls into the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bacon gets crispy and golden. Keep the oil at the same temperature between batches.
- Finish and serve:
- Lift the balls out with a slotted spoon onto paper towels to soak up extra oil. Let them cool a bit, pull out the toothpicks, and serve them warm with sour cream for dipping.
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These tasty bundles take me back to weekends at my grandma's house where she'd turn last night's potatoes into something magical the next day. The mix of crunchy bacon and melted cheese always brings back memories of those warm family meals.
Make-Ahead Options
You can get these potato bundles ready up to a day before you need them. Just put them together completely, set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, wrap with plastic, and stick them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, let them sit out for about 20 minutes before frying. This makes party prep so much easier when you don't want to do everything at the last minute.
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Flavor Variations
The standard version tastes great as is, but you can switch things up with different fillings and flavors. Maybe try pepper jack for some heat, or blue cheese for something fancier. You can mix in fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme with the potatoes too. For an extra rich version, stir some cooked bacon bits right into the potato mix before shaping. You can really make them your own depending on what you like.
Air Fryer Alternative
If you're not into deep frying, these work great in an air fryer too. Heat your air fryer to 375°F and give the basket a quick spray. Put your prepared bundles in without crowding them. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway, until the bacon gets crispy and they're hot inside. They won't be quite as rich but they'll still taste awesome and use way less oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely, chilled mashed potatoes work great. They make it easier to roll and fry without falling apart.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a great choice for its flavor and meltiness, but mozzarella or gouda can put a tasty twist on it.
- → How do I keep the balls intact while frying?
Mix an egg into the potatoes for binding, and be sure the breadcrumbs cover the balls completely before frying.
- → Which oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola. Vegetable oil or sunflower oil works too.
- → Can I bake instead of fry?
You sure can! Bake at 400°F on a rack until the bacon's crisp and the balls are golden. It’s a lighter option.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to bring back their crunchiness.