Parmesan Garlic Mashed Potato Bites are a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. These bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, loaded with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or as a party snack, these potato bites are sure to be a hit. They are simple to make, packed with comforting flavors, and can be customized to your taste.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Potatoes: 3 medium-sized
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Fresh parsley: A small bunch, finely chopped
Butter: 1 tablespoon (20-25g)
Egg yolks: 3 (2 for the mixture, 1 for brushing the bites)
Parmesan cheese (optional): 2 tablespoons, shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and Boil the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks for quicker cooking.
Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Boil the potatoes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and Mash:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot or a large bowl.
Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes until smooth and free of lumps.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Add Butter and Seasoning:
While the potatoes are still warm, add 1 tablespoon of butter, and stir until melted and well incorporated.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add Garlic and Parsley:
Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Incorporate the Egg Yolks:
Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Add 2 egg yolks to the mashed potato mixture, and stir thoroughly. The egg yolks will help bind the mixture and give the bites a rich texture.
Optional Parmesan Addition:
If you’d like to add more flavor, mix in 2 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese. This will enhance the savory taste and give a subtle cheesy flavor to the potato bites.
Step 4: Shape the Potato Bites
Shape the Bites:
Once the mixture is well combined, let it cool slightly. Scoop out small portions of the mashed potatoes (about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each), and roll them into bite-sized balls. Alternatively, you can shape them into small patties or logs, depending on your preference.
Brush with Egg Yolk:
In a small bowl, lightly whisk the remaining egg yolk. Use a pastry brush to coat each potato bite with the egg yolk. This will give the bites a beautiful golden color and a crisp texture when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Potato Bites
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
Bake the Bites:
Arrange the potato bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake the potato bites in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
Step 6: Serve the Potato Bites
Garnish:
Once baked, remove the potato bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve Hot:
Serve the Parmesan Garlic Mashed Potato Bites as a delicious appetizer or side dish. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, sour cream, or marinara sauce.
Cooking Tips:
Choose the Right Potatoes: For a fluffy and creamy texture, use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold. These varieties will give you a smoother mash and a better bite.
Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: Parmesan adds a rich and nutty flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, shape the bites and follow the remaining steps.
Alternative Cooking Method: If you prefer a more crispy exterior, you can fry the potato bites in a bit of oil on the stovetop instead of baking them.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover potato bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop to bring back their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked potato bites. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 140 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 250mg
FAQs:
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter and healthier variation of this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
Can I make these potato bites dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make them dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. You can skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
What can I serve with these potato bites?
These potato bites pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, garlic aioli, ketchup, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, these can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the Parmesan cheese you use is gluten-free and that there is no cross-contamination with gluten in the kitchen.
Conclusion: Parmesan Garlic Mashed Potato Bites are a comforting and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side, or even as a party appetizer. The creamy mashed potato filling, flavored with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, is complemented by the crispy golden exterior. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for experimenting with different flavor combinations. Whether you serve them at a family gathering or for a simple weeknight dinner, these savory bites are sure to please!