⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 30 minutes

Golden, crispy potato bites loaded with gooey cheddar and smoky bacon—these are dangerously good! If you love all things crispy, cheesy, and bacon-y, these Irish-inspired potato bites are for you! They’re the perfect party snack, game-day treat, or St. Patrick’s Day favorite. Serve them with sour cream or a tangy mustard dip for the ultimate indulgence.

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📸 Crispy, golden potato bites stuffed with melty cheddar and smoky bacon, ready to be devoured!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

Potatoes are a staple in Irish cuisine, and this recipe takes them to the next level. Think of these as a hybrid between potato skins and tater tots, packed with cheesy goodness and crispy bacon. The best part? They’re super easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just need a crispy, cheesy snack, these bites will be a hit. The combination of crispy edges and gooey cheddar inside makes them irresistible. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream or even a drizzle of ranch for extra indulgence.

The key to the perfect potato bite is choosing the right type of potato. Russets work well because they’re starchy and help create that light, fluffy interior. Add a little Irish cheddar for authenticity, and you’ve got a bite-sized piece of heaven.

Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 6 (Makes about 18-20 bites) • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 220

3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup sharp Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
1 egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying or baking)
Sour cream or mustard for dipping (optional)

Steps

Step 1

Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain well and mash them with butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly.

Step 2

Mix in the cheddar, bacon, and green onions until well combined. Stir in the flour and beaten egg to bind the mixture.

Step 3

Shape the potato mixture into small balls or tater-tot-sized bites.

Step 4

Coat each bite by rolling in a mixture of panko and Parmesan cheese. Press lightly so the coating sticks.

Step 5

Cook to crispy perfection:

For frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 6

Serve hot with sour cream, mustard, or your favorite dip. Enjoy!

Make it your own!

Add a spicy kick 🌶️ – Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
Go extra cheesy 🧀 – Stuff the center of each bite with a cube of cheese for an extra gooey middle.
Make it vegetarian 🌱 – Skip the bacon and add finely diced mushrooms for umami flavor.
Try a different dip 🍯 – Serve with honey mustard or a smoky chipotle aioli.