If you have a soft spot for crispy, cheesy snacks that burst with flavor, this Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine golden, crunchy outsides giving way to creamy mashed potatoes packed with melted cheddar, smoky bacon bits, and a hint of green onion freshness. These sticks are the perfect balance of comforting and indulgent, perfect for sharing around the table or sneaking when no one’s looking. Whether it’s game day, a party, or just a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up and enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect taste, texture, and color for this delightful snack. From the creamy mashed potatoes that act as the base to the crunchy breadcrumbs coating each stick, everything works in harmony for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled): Provides a creamy and smooth base that holds everything together without falling apart.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melty cheesiness that everyone loves in every bite.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Brings a smoky, salty crunch that brightens up the dish.
- 2 green onions, finely chopped: Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle depth of savory flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and spice.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and adds a light barrier for frying.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as the glue to hold breadcrumbs firmly on each stick.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned): Creates that irresistible crunchy exterior.
- Oil for frying: Essential for getting that perfect golden brown finish.
How to Make Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Start by mixing together the cooled mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This is where all the flavors come together, so make sure everything is evenly mixed to create a deliciously seasoned filling that will shine inside each stick.
Step 2: Shape into Sticks and Freeze
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and shape it into stick-like logs or small cylinders with your hands. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. Freezing firms them up, making the sticks easier to coat and fry without losing their shape.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls for breading: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. This classic breading trio is key for achieving a beautifully crispy crust that holds the potato and cheese mixture securely inside.
Step 4: Coat the Potato Sticks
Take each frozen potato stick and dip it first in the flour, then into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. This triple-layered coat ensures a golden, crunchy outside that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Fry the sticks in batches, turning them every couple of minutes until they are evenly golden brown and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil before serving.
How to Serve Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
For that finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or extra green onions over the hot sticks. Adding a small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy ranch dressing on the side elevates each bite, offering a cool or tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy sticks.
Side Dishes
Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, tangy coleslaw, or a simple plate of steamed veggies. Their hearty nature makes them perfect alongside lighter sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal or snack spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these sticks in fun ways by stacking them in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper, or arrange them on a platter with several dipping sauces like chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or classic ketchup for variety. For parties, consider skewering a few sticks with colorful picks for easy grabbing and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the cooled cheese sticks in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed prevents the crispy coating from becoming soggy and preserves the rich flavors.
Freezing
Once the potato sticks have been breaded but before frying, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-friendly bag. This way, you can keep them frozen for up to one month and fry straight from frozen whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-fried crispiness, reheat the sticks in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crunchy again. Avoid microwaving, which often makes the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes actually work perfectly here because they are already seasoned and cooled, which helps the sticks hold their shape better when frying.
Is it possible to bake or air-fry these instead of deep frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry at a similar temperature until golden and crispy. Just be sure to flip halfway through to brown evenly.
How can I add a spicy kick to the Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe?
Simple! Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture before shaping. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and bacon.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?
Definitely. Sharp white cheddar, mozzarella for extra stretchiness, or even pepper jack for some spice can all be delicious alternatives depending on your flavor preference.
What dipping sauces go best with these potato and cheese sticks?
Classic options like ranch, sour cream, or ketchup are excellent, but feel free to try spicy aioli, chipotle mayo, or even a tangy honey mustard for some exciting flavor contrasts.
Final Thoughts
These Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe truly bring together the best of comfort food with ease and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving them up as a delicious snack or a fun appetizer, they are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful center. So grab your mashed potatoes and start this recipe because these golden sticks are waiting to become your new favorite treat.
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Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 12–16 sticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are crispy, golden brown snacks made from mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions, coated in a crispy breadcrumb exterior and fried to perfection. Perfect as a savory appetizer or party snack, these cheesy potato sticks deliver a delicious combination of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading Station
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
For Frying
- Oil for frying (enough to deep fry)
Instructions
- Prepare the potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients until thoroughly combined to create a flavorful mixture.
- Shape the potato sticks: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape each into a stick-like log or small cylinder using your hands. Place the shaped sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 20–30 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to handle during breading and frying.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow bowls side by side. Fill the first with all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten egg, and the third with breadcrumbs. This setup allows for an efficient coating process to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Bread the potato sticks: Take each frozen potato stick and dip it first into the flour, coating all sides evenly. Then dip it into the beaten egg, followed by rolling it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs. Make sure each stick is well coated to achieve a crispy texture when fried.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer to submerge the sticks. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even frying without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the potato sticks: Fry the sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the hot loaded potato and cheese sticks immediately with your choice of dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or any preferred sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for easy preparation and added flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the potato mixture before shaping.
- Alternatively, air-fry or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until crispy for a healthier version.
- Make sure the potato sticks are well chilled before breading to prevent them from falling apart during frying.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, or plain breadcrumbs if you prefer to control seasoning.
