These Loaded Mini Potato Bites are small but mighty! With crispy potatoes topped with cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon, they make a tasty snack for any gathering.
They’re so cute and delicious that it’s hard to eat just one! I love serving them at parties, and who doesn’t like anything loaded with goodies? Perfect for sharing—or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love using small baby potatoes because they’re easy to handle and result in perfect bite-sized portions. If these aren’t available, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes work well too!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds so much flavor. If you want to make this dish vegetarian, consider using crispy tempeh or even some sautéed mushrooms for added texture and depth.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is classic here, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack can give a nice kick. You can also use a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Sour Cream: This creamy topping enhances each bite. If you prefer something lighter, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Potato Bites?
Getting that perfectly crispy exterior requires a few tips. Roasting the potatoes at a high temperature is key. Here’s how to ensure they are crispy:
- Cut your potatoes in half and ensure they’re evenly coated in oil; this helps them achieve that golden brown color.
- Leave enough space between the potato halves on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate. This prevents steaming and promotes crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, roast in batches.
Following these steps will give you juicy potatoes with a lovely crunch—exactly what you want for these Loaded Mini Potato Bites!
Loaded Mini Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20-25 small baby potatoes or mini potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then about 30 minutes roasting and assembling the delicious bites. Perfect for a quick party snack or a fun family treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the potatoes get crispy and golden brown.
2. Prep the Potatoes:
Wash the mini potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then dry them. Cut each potato in half lengthwise to create little boats for filling.
3. Season and Roast the Potatoes:
Place the potato halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over them. Make sure they’re well coated, then roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. They should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
4. Cook the Bacon:
While the potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove it from the skillet and drain on paper towels, then crumble the bacon into small pieces.
5. Create the Cavity:
Once the potatoes are done, carefully scoop out a small amount of the inside from each half to create a small cavity for stuffing. Be careful not to break the potato skin!
6. Add Cheese and Melt:
Fill each cavity with shredded cheddar cheese. Then, pop the potato bites back into the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Top with Goodies:
Remove the potatoes from the oven and add a dollop of sour cream on top of each. Then, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and red onions for some extra flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm and watch them disappear! Enjoy your loaded mini potato bites with friends and family – they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! If mini potatoes aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes cut into smaller pieces. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as larger pieces will take longer to roast.
Can I Make These Potato Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes a day in advance. Roast and scoop out the potatoes, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add cheese and toppings before baking to warm them through.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for alternatives to sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great choice! For a dairy-free option, look for vegan sour cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy texture.