Loaded Baked Potato Bites
The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
When it comes to appetizers, there’s something universally loved about combining classic comfort foods into bite-sized perfection. That’s where Loaded Baked Potato Bites come in! These delicious, savory bites take everything we adore about a loaded baked potato and shrink it down into an appetizer that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for game day, or simply looking for a fun way to enjoy a familiar favorite, this recipe is bound to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love These Loaded Baked Potato Bites
There’s a reason baked potatoes have stood the test of time – they’re hearty, comforting, and endlessly customizable. By turning them into “bites,” you get all those incredible flavors in a fun and easy-to-eat form. Here’s what makes these bites stand out:
- Crispy Potato Shells: Russet potatoes are the star of this dish. Their fluffy interior contrasts perfectly with their crisp skin, which forms the base for our bites. They hold up wonderfully to the rich fillings while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Rich and Creamy Filling: Butter and sour cream are essential for creating a smooth, creamy texture in the mashed potato filling. This combination ensures each bite is indulgently rich and melts in your mouth.
- Savory Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes and sour cream, adding a tangy and bold flavor that ties everything together.
- Crispy Bacon: No loaded baked potato would be complete without the smoky, salty goodness of bacon. Each bite delivers just the right amount of crunch and savory flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re throwing a casual get-together or making a cozy family dinner, these loaded bites are versatile and always a hit.
Tips for Perfecting Your Potato Bites
- Don’t Skip the Scoop: When hollowing out your potatoes, make sure to leave about ¼ inch of potato around the edges. This ensures that the skins stay crispy and firm while holding the delicious filling.
- Cheese, Cheese, Cheese: For the ultimate cheesy experience, don’t just mix cheese into the filling—save some for sprinkling on top before the final bake. That way, you’ll get golden, bubbly cheese on every bite!
- Bacon Lovers Unite: If you’re a bacon fanatic, feel free to add extra to the mix. You can also sprinkle some freshly cooked bacon crumbles over the top for extra crunch.
How to Serve
Serve these Loaded Baked Potato Bites straight from the oven while they’re still hot and the cheese is perfectly melted. For added fun, set up a mini topping bar with extras like sour cream, chives, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. It’s a great way for guests to customize their bites!
Make Them Ahead
Another great thing about this recipe? You can easily prep them ahead of time! Bake and fill the potatoes a day before your event, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them in the oven to reheat, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time.
These Loaded Baked Potato Bites combine everything you love about a classic loaded baked potato into a perfect, shareable snack. With creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, they’re guaranteed to satisfy any craving. Give them a try at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!
- Serves: 6 People
- Prep Time: 30min
- Cooking: 2hr
- Difficulties: easy
Ingredients
For Cooking
- 1lb russet potatoes
- 3Tbsp butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4slices cooked bacon (chopped)
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Dressing
Nutritional Information
-
Calories
925 -
Total Fat 81.8g
105% -
Saturated Fat 43.1g
216% -
Cholesterol 220mg
73% -
Sodium 2048mg
89% -
Total Carbohydrate 15.2g
6% -
Dietary Fiber 4.8g
17% -
Total Sugars 0.5g
-
Protein 35.8g
-
Vitamin D 32mcg
160% -
Calcium 344mg
26% -
Iron 6mg
34% -
Potassium 711mg
15%
Procedure
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly and pierce each a few times with a fork. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for 45–50 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and the insides are soft.
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Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly until they’re easy to handle. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the fluffy insides into a bowl, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skins.
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To the bowl of potato, add the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mash and mix everything together until smooth and creamy.
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Spoon the potato mixture back into the hollowed-out skins, packing it in evenly.
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Place the stuffed potato skins back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
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Serve hot, garnished with extra bacon, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy!