Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs 💣🧀

These Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with gooey cheddar cheese. Wrapped in bacon and fried to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent. With their crispy exterior, cheesy center, and savory bacon wrapping, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy & Cheesy : A golden, crispy bacon exterior gives way to a creamy mashed potato center filled with melted cheddar.
2. Perfect for Sharing : Bite-sized and easy to serve at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
3. Customizable : Add jalapeños, herbs, or spices for extra flavor.
4. Make Ahead Friendly : Prep the bombs ahead of time and fry just before serving.
5. Kid-Friendly : A hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves bacon and cheese!

Ingredients

(Makes 12–15 bombs)

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes (leftovers work great! ) 🥔
• 1 egg , lightly beaten 🥚
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided 🧀
• 6–8 slices bacon , cut in half crosswise 🥓
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness ) 🍞
• Cooking oil , for frying 🫒
• Salt and black pepper , to taste 🧂⚫
• Optional : Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish ) 🌿

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes , beaten egg , and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese . Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls

1. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it in your palm.
2. Place a small cube of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the mashed potato around it, shaping it into a ball.
   • Tip : Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent leaking during frying.
3. Repeat until all the mixture is used, forming 12–15 balls.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

1. Wrap each mashed potato ball with a half slice of bacon , securing it with a toothpick if needed.
2. Optional: Roll the bacon-wrapped balls in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 4: Fry the Bacon Bombs

1. Heat about 1–2 inches of cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) .
2. Carefully place the bacon-wrapped balls into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 4–6 minutes , turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
   • Tip : Use tongs to turn the balls gently for even cooking.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

1. Remove the bacon bombs with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy these cheesy, bacon-y bites as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

Tips for Success

1. Use Cold Mashed Potatoes : Cold potatoes hold their shape better and are easier to work with.
2. Add Flavor : Stir in minced garlic, chives, or smoked paprika into the mashed potato mixture for extra taste.
3. Bake Option : For a healthier version, bake the bacon bombs at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.
4. Make Ahead : Assemble the bombs ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before frying.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked bombs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

These Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs pair beautifully with:

• Dipping Sauces : Ranch dressing, sour cream, BBQ sauce, or marinara for extra indulgence.
• Side Salad : Balance the richness with a crisp green salad or coleslaw.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Bomb, Approx.)

(Based on 15 bombs, fried)

• Calories : ~150 kcal
• Protein : ~6g
• Carbohydrates : ~10g
• Fat : ~10g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are a crispy, cheesy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or game-day favorite, these bombs deliver on flavor and texture. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheddar, and crispy bacon creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is fun to eat.

The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the flavors, or pair them with different dipping sauces to make them your own. So grab your mashed potatoes, shred that cheese, and get ready to enjoy a treat that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.