Mashed Potato Bacon Bombs (Print version)

Cheesy mashed potato balls wrapped in crisp bacon and baked until hot, golden, and ready for dipping.

# Ingredients:

For the potato filling

01 - 2 1/2 cups (625 g) cold mashed potatoes
02 - 1 large egg, lightly beaten
03 - 1/3 cup (25 g) panko breadcrumbs, plus more if needed
04 - 1/2 cup (55 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives, plus more for serving
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, only if the potatoes need it

For stuffing and wrapping

09 - 4 oz (115 g) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 12 small cubes
10 - 12 thin-cut bacon slices

For serving

11 - 1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream or ranch dressing
12 - Extra sliced chives

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 425°F. Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and lightly grease the rack.
02 - In a medium bowl, stir together the cold mashed potatoes, egg, panko, shredded cheddar, chives, garlic powder, pepper, and salt if needed. The mixture should hold a scoop shape. Add a little more panko if it feels loose.
03 - Scoop the potato mixture into 12 portions. Flatten one portion in your palm, place a cheddar cube in the center, and seal the potato completely around it. Repeat with the remaining filling and cheese.
04 - Place the stuffed potato balls on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This helps them stay round while the bacon cooks.
05 - Wrap 1 bacon slice around each chilled potato ball, tucking the end underneath or securing it with a toothpick. Place seam-side down on the prepared rack.
06 - Bake for 24-30 minutes, turning carefully once, until the bacon is browned and crisp and the centers are hot. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end while watching closely.
07 - Let the bombs rest for 5 minutes. Remove any toothpicks and serve warm with sour cream or ranch and extra chives.

# Good to know:

01 - Best made with cold, firm mashed potatoes.
02 - Thin-cut bacon works better than thick-cut bacon for wrapping.
03 - Contains pork.
04 - Serve warm while the cheese center is melted.

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