These Loaded Mini Potato Bites are tasty little snacks topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions. They are perfect for parties or just a cozy night at home!
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but munch on a few before serving. They are super easy to prepare, and everyone loves them. Who can resist cheesy potatoes? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Potatoes: Red or gold mini potatoes are great choices. They have a creamy texture. If you can’t find mini potatoes, try using medium ones; just cut them in quarters. Or, baby new potatoes work well too!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds flavor and crunch. Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative, but it may not get as crispy. For a vegetarian option, consider using crispy fried onions or tempeh bacon for a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. You can switch it up with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack if you prefer some heat. Dairy-free cheese also works for a lactose-free option.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute, giving you a similar texture and tang. Or, if you want to keep it dairy-free, use a vegan sour cream option.
How Do I Scoop Out Potatoes Without Ruining Them?
Scooping out the potatoes creates space for delicious toppings. It’s important to be gentle, so the skins stay intact. Here’s how to do it:
- Let the potatoes cool slightly after baking. This makes them easier to handle.
- Use a small spoon or a melon baller to scoop out the center. Start from the edges and work your way in, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin.
- Be careful not to scoop too much; aim for about 1/4 inch of potato on the sides and bottom.
Practice makes perfect! If you have a few small holes, don’t worry; they’ll still hold those tasty toppings!
Loaded Mini Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Bites:
- 1.5 pounds mini potatoes (red or gold), halved
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, sliced (green parts only)
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe totals about 40-45 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 30 to bake everything perfectly. That includes time for the potatoes to roast and for the cheesy goodness to melt!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, wash the mini potatoes and cut them in half. In a bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. Then, lay them cut side down on a baking sheet. This helps them crisp up nicely!
2. Baking the Potatoes:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. You want them to be fork-tender and slightly crispy on the outside. Yummy!
3. Cooking the Bacon:
While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Let it get nice and crispy. Once done, take it out and let it drain on paper towels. When it cools, chop it into small pieces. Oh, the aroma!
4. Scooping Out the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are baked, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, use a small spoon to scoop out a bit of the inside of each half to create a little well. Be gentle so the skins stay intact; they’re your little boats for toppings!
5. Adding the Toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Fill each potato half with a dollop of sour cream. Then sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese and bacon bits right on top. It’s going to be delicious!
6. Final Bake:
Return the potato bites to the oven and bake them again for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
When done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for extra flavor and color. Serve warm and get ready for everyone to enjoy these delicious loaded mini potato bites!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While mini potatoes work best, you can use larger potatoes cut into smaller pieces. Just adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they cook through and become tender.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No problem! You can either skip it entirely or substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version. Alternatively, try crumbled feta or cooked sausage for different flavors!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato halves and scoop them out in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and add the toppings right before baking for the best results. They can also be pre-baked; just reheat them briefly before adding the cheese and bacon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through, or microwave them briefly.
