Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Grate the Potatoes: Start by grating the potatoes using a box grater or a food processor.
Remove Excess Moisture: Place the grated potatoes into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. The drier the potatoes, the crispier your bites will be.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with the melted butter, shredded cheese, cooked bacon (or other fillings), chopped green onions, and chopped tomato. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Bites
Form the Bites: Take small handfuls of the potato mixture and shape them into round, flat patties, about the size of a golf ball. Press them down slightly to form disc shapes for even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Potato Bites
Heat the Butter: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. You can also use a combination of butter and oil to prevent burning.
Fry the Potato Bites: Place the potato patties into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The inside should remain soft and cheesy.
Drain Excess Oil: Once the potato bites are crispy and cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
Serve Hot: Serve the crispy potato bites hot, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. These bites can be enjoyed on their own or served with dipping sauces like sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite condiment.
Cooking Tips:
Remove Moisture: Squeezing out the excess moisture from the grated potatoes is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. The drier the potatoes, the crispier the bites will be.
Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or even swapping out bacon for ham or sausage.
Use Different Cheeses: You can experiment with different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Prevent Sogginess: Be sure to drain any excess liquid from the chopped tomato to keep the mixture from becoming too wet, which can prevent the potato bites from crisping up.
Bake Instead of Frying: For a lighter option, you can bake the potato bites in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
Storage:
These potato bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Estimated)
Calories: 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesy potato bites are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside—exactly the comfort food you’re looking for! The mix of cheese, crispy potato, and savory fillings makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re customizable and easy to prepare, making them the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While these bites are indulgent, they contain potatoes, which are rich in fiber and vitamins like vitamin C and B6. The addition of green onions and other vegetables (if you choose to add them) adds extra nutrients. You can even make them lighter by baking instead of frying. These bites are a great option for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish without too much fuss.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy potato bites are perfect on their own, but they can also be served as a side to a larger meal. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or a bowl of soup. For a more substantial meal, serve them with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ketchup, or spicy aioli.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Spicy Version: Add some jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for an extra kick.
Cheesy Garlic Version: Add extra garlic and Parmesan cheese for a more intense garlic flavor.
Conclusion
These crispy cheesy potato bites are a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they are sure to be a hit. With endless variations, this recipe is easy to adapt and perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the potato bites ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them and fry them directly from the freezer.
Can I bake the potato bites instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Simply place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
It’s best to use fresh potatoes for this recipe, as frozen potatoes may release excess moisture during cooking, which could affect the crispiness.
ADVERTISEMENT
