These Loaded Mini Potato Bites are like little flavor bombs! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream. Yum! 😋
Making these is super fun! I love serving them at parties, and they always disappear fast. Plus, who can resist a bite-sized potato loaded with all the good stuff?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Potatoes: Baby or yellow potatoes are great for bite-sized satisfaction. If you can’t find them, use regular potatoes cut into chunks, but keep in mind they may require a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps with crispiness. You can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. Feel free to swap for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick of spice.
Bacon: I love crispy bacon for its crunch. If you want a meatless option, try using crispy fried onions or even smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess. Greek yogurt makes a lighter substitute or you could use a dairy-free version if needed. You could even try guacamole for a twist!
How Do I Get My Potatoes Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the roasting technique. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Spread your potatoes on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded to allow even heat circulation.
- Roast them cut side down to maximize crispiness on that surface. It helps them caramelize nicely!
- Don’t skip the flipping! This adds texture to the other side for a nice golden finish.
Taking your time during the roasting process is key. Keep an eye on the color and use your nose—when they start smelling delicious and look golden, they’re probably ready!
Loaded Mini Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 mini yellow or baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to roast your potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Take your halved mini potatoes and toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each potato is coated evenly. Then, arrange them cut side down on a baking sheet. This helps them crisp up nicely!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the potatoes for about 20-25 minutes. They should be tender inside and golden on top when they’re done. Keep an eye on them near the end!
4. Cook the Bacon:
While the potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat, then chop it into small pieces.
5. Flip the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are roasted, take them out of the oven and carefully flip each one over so the cut side is facing up. This is where you’ll add the cheese!
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cut sides of each potato. Make it as cheesy as you like!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Pop the tray back into the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. It’ll smell amazing!
8. Top with Goodies:
Once out of the oven, top each potato bite with a dollop of sour cream, a generous sprinkle of crispy bacon pieces, and a few chopped chives or green onions for color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm and enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Loaded Mini Potato Bites. They’re perfect for sharing or for treating yourself!
Enjoy making and indulging in these delightful bites!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites. Just make sure to pick cheeses that melt well!
How Should I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes and toppings a few hours in advance. Just keep the topped potatoes covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes for baking if they’re cold from the fridge.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No worries! You can skip the bacon entirely or replace it with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option or even some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Get creative with substitutes!
