Picture this: bite-sized golden nuggets, loaded with all your favorite toppings, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. These Loaded Potato Bites are the appetizer dreams are made of. Join me on a gastronomic journey as we uncover the secrets to creating this irresistible dish.
Loaded Potato Bites Recipe
How to Make Loaded Potato Bites – 7 easy Steps
Equipment
Ingredients
For the spice mix:
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. chili powder
- ½ tsp. dried oregano
- ⅛ tsp. cumin
- ⅛ tsp. paprika
- ¼ tsp. ground cayenne red pepper
- ⅛ tsp. ground black pepper
- ½ tsp. sea salt
For the sweet potato bites:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes cut into ¼” slices
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
For the toppings:
- Hot sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese preferably the Mexican blend variant
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
- jalapeno pepper thinly sliced
- sour cream
Instructions
- delicious but simple appetizer that’s perfect for all your holiday parties
- For the spice mix, just add all the ingredients together into a large bowl.
- For the potato bites, add the olive oil and then the sweet potato slices to the spice mixture you prepared beforehand. Mix until the sweet potato slices are well coated with the spice mixture.
- Place the potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure that the rounds do not overlap each other.
- Bake one side for about 8 minutes and remove from the oven. Flip the potato slices and bake for another 8 minutes.
- When the potato slices are done, get them off the oven and add a dot (or more, depending on your taste) of hot sauce on each slice.
- Top each slice with shredded cheddar cheese and wait for a few minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Before serving, add a blob of sour cream on each slice and top with sliced green onions and jalapeno pepper.
Video
Notes
- To make the sour cream easier to drop, mix it with a few drops of water into a bowl in order to loosen it.
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Baking Loaded Potato Bites in the Oven
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sour cream for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated.
- Baking: Spread the seasoned potatoes out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
- Adding Toppings: Once the potatoes are nicely browned, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits over the hot potatoes. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Final Touch: Remove the Loaded Potato Bites from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serving: Serve your oven-baked Loaded Potato Bites with a side of sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Tips for making loaded potato bites
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Delights: Set up a DIY dipping station with an array of sauces. Classics like sour cream and ketchup are always a hit, but don’t forget about spicy aioli, ranch dressing, or even a zesty cheese dip.
- Amp Up the Veggies: Add a touch of freshness to your platter with a side of crisp, fresh vegetable sticks. Carrots, celery, and cucumber are great choices. They provide a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy bites.
- Mini Sliders: Get creative by turning Loaded Potato Bites into mini sliders. Place a slice of your favorite burger patty or a veggie patty between two bites and secure them with toothpicks. A unique take on a classic.
- Gourmet Garnishes: Elevate the presentation with gourmet garnishes like microgreens, drizzles of balsamic reduction, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These small touches can make your dish look restaurant-worthy.
- Pairing Beverages: Loaded Potato Bites are incredibly versatile when it comes to drinks. Crisp, refreshing beers or a glass of chilled white wine can complement the flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime.
Cooking Tips
- Consistent Sizing: Aim for uniform-sized potato pieces. This ensures even cooking, and all your bites will be ready at the same time.
- Don’t Rush: Patience is key when baking or frying these bites. Don’t overcrowd the pan or rush the process. A few extra minutes can make a huge difference in achieving that crispy texture.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste. While cheddar is a classic, you can go for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
- Fresh Toppings: When adding toppings like green onions or herbs, do so right after removing the bites from the oven. The residual heat will help the flavors meld.
- Keeping Them Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the first batch warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest. This ensures all your guests enjoy warm, cheesy bites.
FAQs of Loaded Potato Bites
- Can I prepare Loaded Potato Bites in advance? Absolutely! You can par-bake them, freeze, and then finish baking when needed. They’re perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Can I use different toppings? Certainly! Experiment with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or even pulled pork for a unique twist.
- How do I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), refrigerate them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for that crispy texture.
- Can I make them gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potato bites with toppings like marshmallows and pecans make a delightful twist for a sweet-savory treat.
Cooking perfection meets flavor explosion with Loaded Potato Bites. Now, it’s your turn to create magic. Share and subscribe for more culinary adventures!
Experience the culinary brilliance of Chef John at Food And Meal Restaurant. With over 20 years of global expertise, My innovative creations and unwavering dedication to cooking have earned me a well-deserved reputation. My passion for gastronomy is showcased in every dish, combining fresh, local ingredients with harmonious flavors and captivating presentations. My ability to tell a story through my food reflects my profound understanding of culture and emotion.