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These crispy, golden orbs of pure comfort food magic transform humble leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary. Picture this: creamy mashed potato wrapped around molten cheddar cheese, encased in crispy bacon, and fried to perfection. I created this recipe one evening when I had leftover mashed potatoes that were too good to waste, and now they're the most requested appetizer at every family gathering.
The first time I served these at a Super Bowl party, grown men were literally fighting over the last one. The combination of that crispy bacon exterior giving way to creamy potato and melted cheese creates the ultimate comfort food experience that never fails to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: use day old mashed potatoes as they hold their shape better than fresh
- 1 egg: acts as a binding agent to help the potato mixture stay together during frying
- Salt and pepper to taste: essential for enhancing all the flavors in the mixture
- 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs: creates that perfect crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior
- Cheddar cheese: cut into 1 inch chunks sharp cheddar works best for flavor and melting properties
- Bacon slices: 1 slice per bomb choose thick cut bacon for better wrapping and flavor
- Oil for frying: canola oil recommended for its neutral flavor and high smoke point
- Sour cream: for dipping the cool tanginess perfectly balances the rich fried flavors
- Toothpicks: for securing choose sturdy wooden toothpicks that won't break during frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes with the egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the egg is completely incorporated and the mixture holds together well. The egg is crucial here because it acts as a binder that prevents the bombs from falling apart during frying.
- Form the Bombs:
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one chunk of cheddar cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the potato around it, rolling gently to form a smooth ball. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed with no gaps, as this prevents cheese from leaking out during frying.
- Apply the Breadcrumb Coating:
- Roll each formed potato ball in the dry breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick evenly all around. This coating creates that essential crispy texture that makes these bombs so irresistible when fried.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Carefully wrap each breadcrumb coated ball with one slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling around to cover as much surface as possible. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, making sure it's pushed in firmly but not so deep that it's hard to remove later.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat your frying oil to exactly 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is critical because too hot and the outside burns before the inside heats through, too cool and they'll absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Carefully lower 1 to 2 bombs into the hot oil at a time. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the coating is golden brown all over. The limited quantity ensures the oil temperature stays constant for even cooking.
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Storage and Make Ahead Tips
These bombs are best enjoyed immediately after frying while the bacon is still crispy and the cheese is molten. However, you can assemble them completely up to 24 hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. The cold storage actually helps them hold together better during frying. If you have leftovers, reheat them in a 375 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore some crispiness.
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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Leftover garlic mashed potatoes work beautifully in this recipe and add extra flavor depth. For the cheese, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a more sophisticated flavor profile. Turkey bacon can substitute for regular bacon if you prefer, though it won't get quite as crispy. For a lighter version, you can bake these at 425 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
These bombs are fantastic as appetizers served with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy chipotle mayo for dipping. For a more elegant presentation, arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of various dipping sauces. They also make an excellent side dish for barbecue or as part of a comfort food feast alongside mac and cheese and coleslaw.
Frying Tips and Safety
Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for perfect results. If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small piece of bread, it should brown in about 60 seconds at the right temperature. Never overcrowd the fryer as this drops the oil temperature and results in greasy, unevenly cooked bombs. Always have a fire extinguisher nearby when deep frying and never leave hot oil unattended.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use freshly made mashed potatoes?
Cold, day-old mashed potatoes are recommended because they hold their shape better when forming the bombs and during frying.
- → What's the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar works best for both flavor and melting quality, but you can experiment with gouda or pepper jack for variety.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, turning once. While not as crispy as frying, it offers a lighter option.
- → How do I keep the bombs from falling apart?
Ensure the egg is fully incorporated and chill the formed bombs before frying. Also, wrap them tightly with bacon and secure with toothpicks.
- → What’s a good dipping sauce?
Sour cream is classic, but ranch, chipotle mayo, or even spicy ketchup pair well with the rich, savory flavors.