1. Homepage
  2. Recipes
  3. Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Section: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

These mashed potato bacon bombs are crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. Made with day-old mashed potatoes wrapped around cheddar cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and spiraled with smoky bacon before frying, they deliver the perfect contrast of gooey cheese center and crunchy exterior. Quick to make in just 35 minutes, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or casual family gatherings. Serve them hot with sour cream, ranch, or chipotle mayo for a snack that’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Pin to Pinterest Share This Recipe Share It Via Email Print the Recipe Go to Recipe Steps
A woman wearing glasses smiles for the camera.
Published By Ioana
Updated on Sat, 20 Sep 2025 02:02:20 GMT
Mashed potato bacon bombs on a table. Bookmark
Mashed potato bacon bombs on a table. | ioanacooks.com

These mashed potato bacon bombs turn simple leftovers into something extraordinary. Each bite delivers creamy potato, gooey cheddar, and smoky crisp bacon all in one perfect mouthful. They are quick to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to disappear faster than you expect. I created these when I had leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge, and now they are the star of every party at my house.

I first made these on a game day when friends were coming over. They vanished so quickly that I had to double the batch the next time. The combination of creamy potato with crispy bacon is unforgettable.

Ingredients

  • Cold mashed potatoes: provide a sturdy base that holds shape during frying
  • Egg: binds the potato mixture and ensures the bombs do not fall apart
  • Salt and black pepper: season the mixture and balance the richness
  • Dry breadcrumbs: give the bombs their crunchy golden coating
  • Cheddar cheese: adds sharpness and melts beautifully in the center
  • Bacon slices: wrap each bomb and bring smoky flavor and crisp texture
  • Vegetable oil: is ideal for deep frying because of its neutral taste and high smoke point
  • Sour cream: offers a cool tangy dip that complements the fried richness
  • Toothpicks: secure the bacon and keep everything tightly wrapped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potato base:
Mix cold mashed potatoes with egg salt and pepper until fully combined. The mixture should be firm enough to shape without crumbling.
Form the bombs:
Scoop two tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten in your palm. Place one cube of cheddar in the center then carefully shape into a ball ensuring the cheese is fully sealed.
Apply breadcrumb coating:
Roll each ball in breadcrumbs pressing gently so the coating sticks evenly. This ensures maximum crispiness when fried.
Wrap with bacon:
Spiral one slice of bacon around each coated ball covering the surface. Secure firmly with a toothpick inserted at an angle.
Heat the oil:
Bring frying oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit using a thermometer for accuracy. Consistent temperature ensures even cooking.
Fry to golden perfection:
Fry one or two bombs at a time for three to four minutes turning gently until bacon is crisp and breadcrumbs are golden. Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot:
Remove toothpicks while still warm. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Mashed potato bacon bombs. Bookmark
Mashed potato bacon bombs. | ioanacooks.com

My favorite part of this recipe is the cheese hidden inside each bomb. The first time I served them to my family my kids were thrilled when the gooey center appeared. It turned into a fun tradition where they guess which one will have the biggest cheese pull.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers reheat in a hot oven for about 8 to 10 minutes to restore crispness. Do not use the microwave as it makes the coating soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use garlic mashed potatoes for extra depth of flavor. Pepper jack adds spice while smoked gouda brings sophistication. Turkey bacon works if you prefer a lighter option though it will be less crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with ranch dressing chipotle mayo or spicy ketchup for dipping. They pair beautifully with barbecue sides like coleslaw or baked beans and make a fun addition to game day spreads.

Mashed potato bacon bombs. Bookmark
Mashed potato bacon bombs. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Fried snacks like these have roots in comfort food traditions where humble ingredients are transformed into indulgent treats. The idea of combining potatoes cheese and bacon reflects classic American flavors beloved for their hearty and satisfying qualities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use freshly made mashed potatoes?

Cold, day-old mashed potatoes are best as they hold their shape during frying and prevent the bombs from falling apart.

→ What cheese works best inside?

Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and offers bold flavor, though gouda or pepper jack can add unique twists.

→ Can these be baked instead of fried?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, turning once. The result is lighter, though not as crispy as deep frying.

→ How do I keep the bombs from breaking apart?

Ensure the egg is fully mixed into the potatoes, chill the bombs before frying, and wrap tightly with bacon secured by toothpicks.

→ What dipping sauces go well?

Sour cream is classic, but ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy ketchup are excellent options to complement the flavors.

Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs

Crispy potato bombs with cheddar and bacon, golden fried for the ultimate snack or appetizer.

Time Needed to Prep
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Side Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 8 How Many It Serves (8 potato bombs)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Potato mixture

Ingredient 01 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
Ingredient 02 1 large egg
Ingredient 03 Salt to taste
Ingredient 04 Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Coating and filling

Ingredient 05 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
Ingredient 06 Cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
Ingredient 07 8 slices thick-cut bacon
Ingredient 08 Toothpicks for securing

→ For frying and serving

Ingredient 09 Vegetable oil for deep frying
Ingredient 10 Sour cream, for dipping

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes with the egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together well.

Step 02

Take about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten in your palm. Place one cube of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the potato around to form a smooth ball.

Step 03

Roll each potato ball in dry breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres evenly.

Step 04

Spiral one slice of bacon around each coated ball, covering the surface. Secure firmly with a toothpick.

Step 05

Preheat frying oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Maintain temperature using a thermometer.

Step 06

Fry 1–2 bombs at a time for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crisp and coating is golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 07

Remove toothpicks and serve immediately with sour cream or preferred dipping sauce.

Extra Tips

  1. Chill the assembled bombs for 30 minutes before frying to prevent cheese from leaking.
  2. Use day-old mashed potatoes for best texture and stability.
  3. Do not overcrowd the frying pan, as it lowers oil temperature and makes bombs greasy.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, sour cream)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (breadcrumbs)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 310
  • Total Fat: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 18 grams
  • Protein Amount: 12 grams