Loaded Potato Bites: A Perfect Snack for Every Occasion

Loaded Potato Bites

Loaded Potato Bites: A Perfect Snack for Every Occasion

Are you craving a delicious and crispy snack that packs the irresistible flavours of a loaded baked potato? Look no further than these loaded potato bites! A perfect treat for any event, from cosy movie nights to lively Super Bowl parties, these bites are sure to steal the spotlight.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making crispy, bite-sized potato treats that are both comforting and indulgent.

What Are Loaded Potato Bites?

Loaded potato bites combine all the flavours of a loaded baked potato but in a convenient, bite-sized form. They are made by boiling, smashing, and roasting small peewee potatoes to a crispy golden perfection.

Once roasted, these little gems are topped with sour cream, bacon, cheddar cheese, and scallions, delivering all the deliciousness of a traditional baked potato in a new, fun format.

Perfect for serving as appetizers, these crispy potato bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether served as hors d’oeuvres or placed on a platter for guests to help themselves, these bites won’t last long. Everyone will be asking for more!

Peewee Potatoes: The Key to Crispy Bites

You might be wondering what makes these loaded potato bites so special. The secret lies in the use of peewee potatoes. These tiny potatoes, available in various colours such as white, yellow, pink, or purple, are small but mighty in flavour.

Their petite size makes them cook quickly, while their mild taste ensures that they absorb the perfect balance of seasonings and toppings. Peewee potatoes are often sold pre-washed, but a quick rinse before cooking is still recommended for the best results.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Bites

To make these delectable loaded potato bites, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds multicoloured peewee potatoes
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 16 ounces sour cream (1 container)
  • 6 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups)
  • 6 scallions, finely chopped (1 cup), plus more for garnish
  • 12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled (1 ½ cups)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Boil the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. In a saucepan, place the peewee potatoes and cover them with 2 inches of cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt, bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.

Cook the potatoes until a knife can easily pierce through them, about 10 to 12 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool for 10 minutes.

2. Prepare the Baking Sheets

While the potatoes cool, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil on each of two rimmed baking sheets. Spread the oil evenly and toss the potatoes in the oil to coat them fully.

3. Flatten the Potatoes

Using the heel of your hand or the back of a spatula, lightly crush each potato to about ½ inch thick. Season the flattened potatoes with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

4. Roast the Potatoes

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 30 to 35 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through the roasting process for an even golden and crispy texture. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven.

5. Prepare the Toppings

While the potatoes roast, it’s time to prepare the toppings. In a medium-sized bowl, combine sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, and crumbled bacon. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix well.

6. Top the Potatoes and Serve

Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection, top each one with 1 to 2 teaspoons of the sour cream mixture. Garnish with additional scallions for a fresh, vibrant finishing touch. These loaded potato bites are now ready to serve!

Why Are Loaded Potato Bites a Perfect Appetizer?

The beauty of loaded potato bites is their versatility. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated cocktail party or a casual game night, these little bites will impress your guests. Their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior provide the perfect balance of textures and flavours.

The addition of bacon adds a smoky richness that complements the freshness of the scallions. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, these bites are a must-try for any event.

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Bites

  1. Choose small, even-sized potatoes for consistent cooking.
  2. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheets; giving the potatoes enough space to crisp up will ensure a perfect roast.
  3. If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle the roasted potatoes with grated parmesan before serving.
  4. For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for peewee potatoes?

If you can’t find peewee potatoes, baby potatoes or new potatoes are excellent substitutes, though the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make these potato bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato bites in advance. Roast them a day ahead, then top with the sour cream mixture before serving.

Can I freeze loaded potato bites?

While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can freeze the cooked and cooled potato bites. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.

Can I make these bites vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make them vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using plant-based cheese and sour cream alternatives.

What can I serve with loaded potato bites?

These bites pair perfectly with a variety of dips, such as guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing, for an extra burst of flavour.

Conclusion

Loaded potato bites are a game-changing snack that brings all the flavours of a loaded baked potato into one irresistible, bite-sized treat.

They’re perfect for any occasion and will quickly become a crowd favourite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with these simple yet delicious crispy potato bites.

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