Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Name: Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cold mashed potatoes; 1 egg; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; ½ cup dry bread crumbs; Cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch chunks (1 chunk per bomb); Bacon slices (1 slice per bomb); Oil for frying (canola recommended); Sour cream, for dipping

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: February 25, 2026

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Introduction to Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Every now and then, I find myself craving a cozy, indulgent treat that captures the essence of comfort food. That’s when I turn to my ultimate favorite: Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs! Picture this: golden, crispy bites that burst with cheesy goodness, all wrapped in delicious bacon. Whether you’re rushing home after a long day, looking to impress guests at a gathering, or just wanting to delight your family, these little bombs are your secret weapon. Trust me; they’ll bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

These Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs are truly a game changer for busy moms and professionals like us. They’re perfect for quick meal prep and make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to whip up. The heavenly combination of creamy potatoes and crispy bacon delivers a sensational flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that brings everyone together around the table? You’re going to adore these cheesy bites!

Ingredients for Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle in cooking, and for these Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs, you won’t need anything too fancy! Here’s what you’ll need:

Cold mashed potatoes: The star of the show! Using leftover mashed potatoes adds depth and a creamy texture.
Egg: This binds everything together. It also helps in achieving a firmer texture when frying.
Salt and black pepper: A pinch of both enhances flavor. Season these babies well to bring out the best taste.

Dry bread crumbs: They provide that gorgeous crispy coating we all love. Feel free to use gluten-free options to suit your needs.
Cheddar cheese: Cut into 1-inch chunks, this melty goodness is what makes each bite irresistible.
Bacon slices: Because what isn’t improved by bacon? It adds that savory crunch and enhances the flavors.

Oil for frying: Canola oil works great here, but you can use other oils if you prefer. Just ensure the oil has a high smoke point.
Sour cream: This is perfect for dipping! Adds a creamy tang to balance the richness of the bombs.

If you have some fresh herbs or spices lying around, sprinkle them into your mashed potatoes for added flavor. You can also mix in some cooked vegetables for a nutritious twist. You’ll find exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out. Happy cooking!

How to Make Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

Start by combining the cold mashed potatoes, egg, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Make sure everything is mixed evenly for the best flavor. Using cold mashed potatoes is crucial here. It helps keep the texture light and fluffy. Warm potatoes can become gooey, which we want to avoid. Mix until you have a smooth, well-blended mixture, then set it aside. This step is simple but absolutely essential for those irresistible Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs!

Step 2: Form the Cheesy Balls

Now it’s time to have some fun! Scoop a small portion of your potato mixture and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a chunk of cheddar cheese in the center, then wrap and roll the potato around it until it forms a perfect ball. Aim for a golf ball size—it’s just right! Pinch the seams to seal in that cheesy goodness. Getting them sealed well is key, so the cheese doesn’t escape during frying. Your cheesy center will melt like a dream!

Step 3: Coat and Wrap

Next, it’s time to give those potato bombs some love. Roll each ball in dry bread crumbs, coating them evenly. This step delivers that crave-worthy crispy texture we all adore. Once coated, carefully wrap each potato ball with a slice of bacon. I like to secure them with a toothpick to keep all that deliciousness inside while frying. Be sure to wrap the bacon snugly, as this is what adds the ultimate flavor and crunch to your Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs.

Step 4: Fry the Bombs

Heat some canola oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). This is the sweet spot for frying—golden brown, crispy exterior, and fluffy interior is what we want! Fry the bacon-wrapped potato balls in small batches, so they cook evenly and aren’t crowded. Each bomb takes around 3–4 minutes to cook until perfectly golden and crispy. Just keep an eye on them, flipping gently as needed. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once they’re golden, remove the bombs from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to catch any excess oil. Serve these delightful bites warm with a side of sour cream for dipping. I recommend setting the scene with bright plates or even a rustic platter to showcase these beauties. Gather your loved ones around, and watch them dive into these mouthwatering Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs with smiles on their faces!

Tips for Success

Ensure mashed potatoes are cold. This keeps your bombs from becoming too gooey.

Use fresh bacon for a crispier finish; check that it wraps securely around each ball.
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. This helps ensure even cooking.
Experiment with cheese types—mozzarella or pepper jack can add a flavorful twist.

Season your breadcrumbs for an extra level of flavor!

Equipment Needed

Deep skillet or fryer: A large pot works too, just keep an eye on the oil temperature.
Mixing bowl: Any bowl will do, but a larger one helps for mixing well.
Scoop or spoon: For portioning out the mashed potato mixture.

Toothpicks: Great for securing bacon, or you can use kitchen twine.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing bombs from hot oil safely.

Variations

Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the mashed potatoes for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Try using different cheese varieties, such as gouda or pepper jack, for a spicy kick.
Incorporate cooked vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, to sneak in some extra nutrition.
Opt for turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a healthier or vegetarian version.

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the potato mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs with a fresh garden salad for balance.

Serve with tangy barbecue sauce or zesty ranch for an extra dip!
A crisp, cold beer or a fruity iced tea makes a lovely drink accompaniment.
Present them on a rustic wooden board for a charming touch.

Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Can I make Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the potato balls and refrigerate them before frying. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before frying, ensuring even cooking.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can! For a healthier option, bake the wrapped potato bombs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but will still be delicious!

What should I serve with Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs?

These bombs go great with various dips! Sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy jalapeño dip complements them perfectly. Pairing with a fresh salad adds a lovely contrast!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack. Each brings its unique flavor to your Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs!

Final Thoughts

Making Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs isn’t just about whipping up a tasty appetizer; it’s an experience filled with laughter and joy. These cheesy delights have the magical ability to bring friends and family together around the table. As you watch your loved ones bite into these golden treasures, savoring that burst of flavors, you’ll feel the warmth and connection shared through food. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these bites are sure to become a favorite tradition in your home. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every delicious moment!