These Mini Loaded Baked Potato Bites are little flavor bombs! Each bite-sized potato is stuffed with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. They are perfect as a snack or a fun appetizer!
Trust me, it’s hard to eat just one. When I make these, my friends always ask for the recipe—who wouldn’t want to enjoy cheesy, bacon-filled potato goodness? 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best due to their smooth texture and flavor. If these aren’t available, fingerling potatoes or even small Russets can be great substitutes.
Olive Oil: This adds nice richness. You can swap it for canola oil or melt butter if you want a different taste. I sometimes use garlic-infused oil for extra flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold taste, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a milder or spicier version respectively.
Bacon: For a vegetarian option, try crispy tempeh bacon or omit it entirely and add more cheese or roasted vegetables for texture.
Sour Cream: You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier choice, or use vegan sour cream if you prefer a dairy-free version. Cream cheese is also an option for a thicker, richer filling.
How Do I Scoop the Potatoes Without Breaking Them?
Scooping the potatoes to create a well can be tricky, but it’s all about being gentle and careful. Here’s how to do it right:
- After halving the potatoes, use a small spoon or a melon baller. A melon baller works great because of its rounded shape.
- Start near the center and gently rotate the spoon, taking out a small amount of potato. Aim for about half of the middle to create enough space for filling.
- Don’t rush! Take your time and check for any holes in the skin as you scoop. If you make a small hole, just patch it with some extra potato.
Practice on a few potatoes if you’re unsure—it’s definitely worth it for those tasty bites!
Mini Loaded Baked Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby or mini potatoes (preferably Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: Chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 35 minutes to cook. In total, you will need around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prep the Potatoes:
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel, then carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop Out the Centers:
Using a small spoon or a melon baller, gently scoop out a little bit of the inside of each potato half. Aim to create a small well without breaking through the skin. This is where you’ll add all the tasty filling!
4. Season and Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potato halves cut side up on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle each half with salt and pepper to taste. Now, it’s time to pop them into the oven! Bake for about 25 minutes until they’re just tender and the skins look crispy.
5. Fill the Potatoes:
Carefully take the potatoes out of the oven. Now, fill each hollow with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and some green onions. The more loaded, the better!
6. Final Bake:
Return the filled potatoes to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, you can garnish the bites with extra green onions or chives if you like. Serve these warm, and enjoy every delicious bite!
These Mini Loaded Baked Potato Bites are sure to be a hit! Perfect for sharing, and trust me, they won’t last long on the table. Enjoy! 🥔✨
Can I Make These Mini Loaded Baked Potato Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potato halves and even scoop them out a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just season and bake when you’re ready—no need to worry about the taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, try using crispy tempeh bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers for a fresh crunch. You can also simply add extra cheese to keep it hearty!
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through; this helps keep them crispy!
Can I Freeze These Mini Loaded Baked Potato Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the filled potato bites before baking. Just assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed!