If you’ve ever found yourself staring at leftover mashed potatoes wondering, “What now?” this is your answer. Mashed potato bacon bombs take the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes and wrap them in a crispy, golden bacon shell that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a fun dinner side, these bite-sized bundles bring serious joy. In this recipe, we’ll break down how to make mashed potato bacon bombs with simple ingredients, share why they’re such a crowd-pleaser, and even answer questions like what chefs and restaurants sneak into their mashed potatoes for maximum flavor. Plus, you’ll get pairing tips, nutrition advice, and a story that ties it all together. Let’s jump in.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Make: Ingredients List, Step-by-Step Directions
Ingredients for Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
These ingredients are flexible use what you have.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftovers)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 10–12 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
- Oil for frying or baking spray if using the oven
Optional Add-ins: minced jalapeño, chopped cooked ham, or even bits of broccoli.
Step-by-Step Directions for Perfect Bombs
- Prep the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheese, green onions, egg, garlic powder, and season to taste. Mix until evenly combined.
- Shape the bombs: Scoop a golf-ball sized amount and roll it tightly into a ball.
- Wrap in bacon: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around the ball, tucking ends underneath or securing with a toothpick.
- Choose your cooking method:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F and cook for 10–12 minutes until bacon is crisp.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes.
- Pan-fry: Sear on all sides in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp.
Make sure the bacon is fully cooked before serving.
You can also check out how mashed potatoes pair with classic proteins in this beef steak with mashed potatoes recipe it’s a great side dish inspiration.
What Is Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs?
Mashed potato bacon bombs are bite-sized comfort food creations made by rolling seasoned mashed potatoes into balls, wrapping them in bacon, and cooking them until crispy. Think of them as a modern twist on classic side dishes, combining the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the savory crunch of bacon. They’re not just a treat for the taste buds they’re showstoppers at parties, game-day spreads, and cozy family dinners.
The real magic lies in their versatility. You can use leftover mashed potatoes, stuff them with cheese, or even spice them up with jalapeños. Some variations add bread crumbs or flour, but a simple blend of egg and cheese works as a binder for a smooth, gooey center. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, mashed potato bacon bombs bring together two of America’s most loved ingredients: potatoes and bacon.
They’re also a clever way to reinvent leftovers and eliminate waste without sacrificing taste. From everyday cooks to TikTok foodies, these little flavor-packed bombs have become a go-to for anyone who craves bold bites with simple steps.
Why You’ll Love This
There’s a reason mashed potato bacon bombs have gone viral every bite hits that comfort-meets-crunch sweet spot. If you’re a fan of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy bacon, combining them into a single bite-sized bomb is downright irresistible. These are not just snackable they’re crave-worthy.
What makes them stand out? First, they’re incredibly easy to make, especially if you already have leftover mashed potatoes in your fridge. No need for complicated prep or fancy kitchen tools. Just mix, roll, wrap, and cook. Even better, they cook fast air-fried in 10 minutes or oven-ready in under 30.
Second, they’re crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, hosting a party, or looking for an indulgent weeknight side, these bombs disappear quickly. You can even personalize them add jalapeños for heat, stuff them with mozzarella for a cheesy core, or roll them in breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crunch.
Finally, they give you restaurant-style satisfaction at home. Kind of like how restaurants amp up mashed potatoes with butter, cream, or a touch of garlic oil, you’re building flavor inside and out. That’s the kind of kitchen win that makes you look forward to leftovers.
What to Serve With Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
Mashed potato bacon bombs are bold enough to steal the spotlight but versatile enough to play nice with a range of dishes. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side, here’s how to round out your plate.
Flavor-Forward Pairings
These bacon bombs pair beautifully with light, crisp sides that balance their richness. A tangy salad like a cucumber ranch mix or even a vinegar-dressed slaw cuts through the fat and refreshes the palate. You could also serve them with a dipping sauce: sour cream with chives, smoky chipotle mayo, or a garlic aioli all work wonders.
If you’re leaning into Southern comfort vibes, consider classic cornbread or a scoop of cornbread casserole on the side. The contrast of textures makes for an indulgent yet balanced meal.
Meaty Mains and Proteins
Looking to turn these into a full dinner? Pair them with grilled or roasted meat. They’re a natural fit next to a juicy beef steak and mashed potatoes combo. Or serve them alongside BBQ chicken thighs or pulled pork to double down on bold flavor. The crisp bacon exterior ties in perfectly with grilled meats and smokier sauces.
For a meatless match, consider pairing them with roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or carrots. The starchiness of the potatoes keeps the meal satisfying without the need for extra protein.
Pro tip: serve them on a board with other bite-sized eats for an epic party platter. Think mini sliders, veggie sticks, and maybe a sweet-salty side like cheesy garlic butter corn.
Nutrient Benefits of Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs and Storage Tips
Mashed potato bacon bombs may be indulgent, but they can still be part of a balanced meal especially when you’re smart about portions and ingredients. Let’s break down the nutrition and how to store them safely.
Are Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs Nutritious?
At their core, these bombs offer more than just comfort. Potatoes are a natural source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber (especially if you include some skin in the mash). The egg in the mix adds protein and B vitamins, while cheese delivers calcium and fat for satiety.
That said, bacon adds saturated fat and sodium, so this dish leans on the rich side. Want a lighter version? Use turkey bacon or air-fry instead of deep-frying. You can also sneak in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients. And if you serve these with something fresh and fiber-rich like a chive blossom salad or roasted veggies you’ve got balance on your side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These are fantastic make-ahead bites. Once cooked and cooled:
- Store: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll hold up well for up to a month.
- Reheat: To keep the bacon crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which softens the bacon.
You can even prep them uncooked, freeze, and then bake straight from frozen just add 5–8 extra minutes to the cook time.
FAQs About Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
What does Gordon Ramsay put in mashed potatoes?
Gordon Ramsay typically enriches mashed potatoes with butter, crème fraîche, and sometimes garlic-infused cream for extra flavor and smoothness. The key is high-quality potatoes and generous seasoning.
What is the posh word for mashed potatoes?
The refined term often used in upscale settings is “pommes purée.” This French version is smoother, richer, and often includes more butter and cream than traditional mash.
What does Bob Evans put in their mashed potatoes?
Bob Evans’ mashed potatoes are made with real potatoes, butter, milk, and cream, creating a rich, creamy consistency that many fans try to replicate at home.
What do restaurants add to mashed potatoes?
Restaurants often add ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, sour cream, or even truffle oil to boost texture and flavor. Butter and salt are essentials, but secret additions like cheese or herb-infused cream set their versions apart.
Conclusion
Mashed potato bacon bombs aren’t just a recipe they’re a revelation. Crispy, creamy, and endlessly customizable, they transform simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Whether you’re using up leftovers or planning them from scratch, these bombs are easy to make and impossible to resist. Serve them up at your next party or alongside your weeknight dinner, and don’t be surprised when they vanish fast.
Print
Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs
Mashed potato bacon bombs are crispy, cheesy bites wrapped in bacon with a creamy potato center—perfect as snacks, appetizers, or sides.
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 10–12 bombs 1x
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
1 egg
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
10–12 slices of bacon
Oil or baking spray
Instructions
1. Combine mashed potatoes, cheese, onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Roll mixture into golf-ball sized balls.
3. Wrap each ball with 1 slice of bacon; secure with toothpick if needed.
4. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 mins or bake at 400°F for 20–25 mins until bacon is crisp.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, roll in breadcrumbs before baking.
Try mixing in chopped jalapeños or ham for variations.
Use leftover mashed potatoes to save prep time.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fry / Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
