Creamy Mashed Potatoes Mixed With Sharp Cheddar And Scallions, Rolled Into Bite-Sized Balls, Breaded, And Fried To Golden, Melty Perfection!
Whenever we have leftover mashed potatoes (which isn’t often!), these Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites are my go-to way to bring them back to life. They’re creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with cheesy, savory goodness.
They’re basically little comfort bombs — perfect for snacking, party platters, or even as a fun side dish to grilled meats or soups. My kids dip them in ranch or ketchup, my husband prefers hot sauce, and I love them just the way they are. Bonus: You can make the mixture ahead of time and fry when ready to serve.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Yes! This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they’re cold and firm before rolling.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for bold flavor, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a kick.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: You can! They won’t get quite as crispy, but you can bake them at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: Do they freeze well?
A: Absolutely. Freeze them after breading and fry (or bake) straight from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes — use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the coating.
What You Need to Make Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional for coating station:
- ½ cup flour
- 1 additional egg (for egg wash)
- Extra breadcrumbs for a double-dip crust
How to Make Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites
1. Mix the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, scallions, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and firm enough to hold shape.
2. Form the bites
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1½-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to firm up.
3. Bread the balls
Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs again.
4. Fry until golden
Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry the bites in batches, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot
Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, spicy mayo, or sour cream and chives.
Tips
- Don’t skip chilling the mixture – It helps the bites hold their shape during frying.
- Use a cookie scoop – For even sizing and less mess.
- Air fryer option: Spray well with oil and air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Megan L. – “Made these with leftover mashed potatoes and they were a total hit. Crispy on the outside and super cheesy inside!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Rachel S. – “My kids devoured them. We dipped them in ranch and BBQ sauce — so good!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sophie W. – “Perfect party snack. I made a batch ahead of time and fried them just before serving. Gone in minutes.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma B. – “Baked them instead of frying and they were still amazing. Added a little garlic powder for extra flavor.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica H. – “Crispy, cheesy, comforting — exactly what I want in a snack. Will definitely make again!”
Printable Recipe
Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites
These Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites are golden and crunchy on the outside, melty and savory on the inside. The ultimate way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)
- Optional for coating station:
- ½ cup flour
- 1 additional egg (for egg wash)
- Extra breadcrumbs for a double-dip crust
Instructions
1. Mix the filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, scallions, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and firm enough to hold shape.
2. Form the bites
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1½-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to firm up.
3. Bread the balls
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs again.
4. Fry until golden
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry the bites in batches, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot
- Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, spicy mayo, or sour cream and chives.
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If these Crispy Cheddar Scallion Mashed Potato Bites made it to your must-make-again list, I’d be so happy if you shared the recipe! Whether you’re posting a snap on Instagram, pinning it for later, or sending it to a friend who lives for snacky things, spreading the love means so much. Tag me so I can see your delicious versions too!
