If youโre on the hunt for the kind of appetizer that makes everyoneโs eyes light up, look no further than Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs. These golden bites blend creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon into a comfort food explosion that practically disappears the moment they hit the table. Whether youโre cooking for a party or treating yourself to an indulgent snack, this dish packs big flavor in every single, irresistible bite.
Ingredients Youโll Need
Great recipes donโt need to be complicated, and Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are proof that simple, well-chosen ingredients are all it takes for kitchen magic. Each component brings its own flairโflavor, texture, and a little wow factor that makes these bombs so memorable.
- Russet potatoes: The hearty, fluffy baseโrussets mash up creamy but hold their shape.
- Bacon: Salty, savory, and crisp; the star wrapper that defines every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: For a rich, melty surprise at the center of each bomb.
- Green onions: Chopped for a gentle onion zing and a hint of color.
- Salt and pepper: Just the right amount to bring out all the natural flavor.
- Butter: Blended into the potatoes for creaminess and depth.
- Milk or cream: Helps achieve that perfectly mashable texture.
- Egg: Mixes into the mash to help the bombs hold together during baking.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): For extra crunch if you love a crispy coating.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh, green finish that really pops.
How to Make Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
Step 1: Make Dreamy Mashed Potatoes
Begin by peeling and chopping your russet potatoes, then simmering them in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot, then mash with butter and a splash of milk or cream. The goal is a smooth, spoonable mashโdonโt skimp on beating in enough butter, and taste for just the right seasoning.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Structure
Mix in the chopped green onions, a beaten egg, and plenty of shredded cheddar. This isnโt just for tasteโthe egg acts as a binder, ensuring your Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs bake up sturdy instead of falling apart. Stir everything until the cheese is evenly distributed and the mash holds its shape when scooped.
Step 3: Shape and Fill
Scoop a generous spoonful of your potato mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a bit more cheese in the middle, then wrap the mash around it to form a ball. If youโre a crunchy texture fan, roll each bomb lightly in breadcrumbs for extra crisp.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon Magic
Hereโs where Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs really live up to their name! Wrap each potato ball in a slice of bacon, securing the end with a toothpick to keep it snug as it cooks. Place seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the tray into the oven and bake at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) until the bacon is crispy and the bombs are perfectly goldenโusually about 20โ25 minutes. Let them cool a minute or two, but serve while the cheese is still melty and irresistible in the middle.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
Garnishes
Scatter freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chives over the top for a bright contrast to the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce on the side makes these Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs even more unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness with crisp, fresh sides like a zippy arugula salad or tangy coleslaw. Theyโre also fantastic as part of a game day spread, nestled among dips and crunchy veggies. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for the Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs first.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve them on a wooden board with little toothpicks for easy grabbing, or arrange them atop a platter lined with greens. For extra wow factor, offer a trio of dipsโthink ranch, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard. Thereโs no wrong way to spotlight these beauties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If youโre lucky enough to have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just make sure the Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are completely cooled before sealing them up to keep the bacon crisp as possible.
Freezing
These crowd-pleasers actually freeze surprisingly well! Place uncooked (but wrapped) bombs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Theyโll keep for 1โ2 monthsโto cook from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring leftover Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs back to life, reheat them in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This keeps the exterior crispy and the inside lush and cheesy, which is exactly how they should be enjoyed.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While scratch-made potatoes yield the creamiest results, instant mash can work in a pinch. Just make sure theyโre stiff enough to shapeโadd a bit less milk if needed.
What cheeses work best inside Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs?
Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda. For an extra flavor punch, try a blend of two favorites!
How do I keep the bacon from unraveling?
Wrapping tightly and securing with a toothpick does the trick. Lay the seam-side down as they start to bake, which helps render the fat and holds everything together.
Can I make these vegetarian?
You sure can! Swap the bacon for a plant-based alternative, or roll the bombs in panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil for a crispy (uncured) shell.
How can I prep these ahead for a party?
Shape, fill, and wrap the bombs, then store on a tray in the fridge for up to a day before baking. It doesnโt get much easier for a stress-free, last-minute appetizer!
Final Thoughts
If youโre ready to earn MVP status at your next gathering, give Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs a try. Every bite is an invitation to indulge in pure comfort, and you might just find yourself making a double batch next time. Bake a tray and watch how quickly they disappearโthese bombs are pure joy in edible form!
PrintMashed Potato Bacon Bombs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12โ14 bombs 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy mashed potatoes stuffed with gooey cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to golden perfection. Theyโre perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you need a comforting, bite-sized snack with serious flavor.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Filling
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons chives (finely chopped, optional)
For Assembly
- 12โ14 slices bacon (thin-cut works best)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, butter, milk, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, then let the mixture cool if itโs still warm. - Shape the Potato Bombs
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mashed potato and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of cheddar cheese and a pinch of chives (if using) in the center. Gently fold the potato mixture around the cheese to completely seal and roll into a smooth ball. - Wrap with Bacon
Take a slice of bacon and stretch it slightly. Wrap it around the potato ball, securing the ends underneath. If needed, use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place. - Bake the Bacon Bombs
Arrange the wrapped bombs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch drips). Bake in a preheated oven at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted. - Garnish and Serve
Let the bombs cool slightly, remove toothpicks if used, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm for the best gooey cheese pull!
Notes
- Leftover or instant mashed potatoes work well for this recipe.
- You can swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese.
- If your mashed potatoes are very soft, chill them briefly to make shaping easier.
- Baking on a rack helps the bacon crisp evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0.8g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *