Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are everything you love about comfort food in one bite! These golden, cheesy delights are packed with fluffy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of seasoning, all wrapped up in a crunchy, golden crust. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate party snack, a fun side dish, or just an irresistible treat to munch on, trust me, these are a game-changer!
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Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks
These cheesy potato sticks are more than just delicious—they’re fun, easy, and a total crowd-pleaser! Here’s why you need to try them:
- Crispy & Cheesy: The perfect balance of crunch and gooey, melty goodness inside.
- Comfort Food Favorite: Who doesn’t love potatoes and cheese? This takes that classic combo to the next level.
- Quick & Easy: Made with simple ingredients and ready in no time!
- Great for Parties: Perfect for serving at game nights, gatherings, or even as an afternoon snack.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and fry them up whenever the craving hits!
Ingredients in Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks
Here’s what makes these sticks so irresistible:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, fluffy base of the sticks. Use leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch.
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both for that perfect stretch and flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add smoky, salty goodness.
- Green Onions: A touch of freshness and mild oniony flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Seasonings: Enhances the taste with a hint of warmth and depth.
- Eggs: Helps bind everything together for the perfect texture.
- Flour & Breadcrumbs: Create a crispy, golden exterior when fried.
- Oil: For frying these beauties to perfection.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s make these crispy, cheesy potato sticks!
Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Shape the Sticks: Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into small, rectangular sticks. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Chill for Firmness: Pop the shaped sticks into the freezer for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while frying.
Prepare the Coating: Set up three bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Coat the Sticks: Dip each potato stick into the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain & Serve: Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks
These tasty sticks pair well with all kinds of dips and sides! Try them with:
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy, herby contrast to the crispy, cheesy bites.
- Sour Cream & Chives: A classic baked potato-inspired combo.
- Spicy Ketchup or Sriracha Mayo: For a little heat!
- Marinara Sauce: Because cheese and tomato-based sauces are always a match made in heaven.
- As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats for an extra indulgence.
Additional Tips
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: They hold their shape better and make it easier to form sticks.
- Don’t Skip Freezing: It helps prevent the sticks from falling apart when frying.
- Bake Instead of Frying: If you prefer a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Try Different Fillings: Mix in jalapeños, caramelized onions, or different cheeses for a unique twist!
- Store & Reheat: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can shape the sticks and freeze them for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from frozen—just add an extra minute to the frying time.
Q2: Can I air-fry these instead of deep-frying?
A2: Absolutely! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q3: What’s the best cheese to use?
A3: Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but pepper jack or gouda would add a fun twist!
Q4: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A4: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A5: Yes! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make them completely gluten-free.
Q6: What oil is best for frying?
A6: Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for frying.
Q7: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A7: Yes, but make sure they’re thick and not too runny. You may need to add extra flour to help with binding.
Q8: Can I add more seasonings?
A8: Absolutely! Smoked paprika, onion powder, or cayenne pepper would be great additions.
Q9: How do I make them extra crispy?
A9: Double-coat them by dipping in egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying.
Q10: Can I use different meats instead of bacon?
A10: Yes! Try diced ham, cooked sausage, or even shredded chicken for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are crispy, cheesy, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a party, game day, or just because you need a little comfort food, they’re sure to be a hit! So grab your potatoes, get that cheese melting, and enjoy every crunchy, gooey bite. Happy cooking!
Print
Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 sticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bite into these crispy, cheesy Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks for the ultimate game-day appetizer! Stuffed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and sour cream, these golden delights are crispy on the outside and gooey in the center. Whether baked or fried, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 russet potatoes, cooked and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onion, diced
- 1/4 cup bacon, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 block cheddar cheese, cut into 1/4-inch strips
- Oil, for frying
- Salt, to season
For the Dredge:
- Flour
- Egg
- Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Potato Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine cooked potatoes, sour cream, green onions, bacon, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the ingredients together until mostly smooth, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
Step 2: Stuff with Cheese
- Cut cheddar cheese into strips (about ¼-inch thick).
- Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and form a ball.
- Place a cheese strip in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it, ensuring it’s fully covered.
Step 3: Coat & Dredge
- Roll each potato stick in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
Step 4: Cooking Options
Option 1 – Bake
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Option 2 – Fry
- Heat oil to 350°F (180°C).
- Fry the sticks for about 3 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
- Transfer to a drying rack and season with salt.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let the sticks cool for a few minutes (they’ll be hot inside!).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick!
- Serve with ranch, marinara, or sour cream dip for extra flavor.
- Make them ahead of time and freeze—just reheat in the oven for a quick snack!
Nutrition
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg