These Loaded Potato Bites turn baby potatoes into a fun, bite sized appetizer. Topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a small dollop of sour cream, they're perfect for any party spread.
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly, then pat them dry.
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl, add olive oil, salt and pepper, then toss until evenly coated.
4 tablespoons olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
Place potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool slightly until they are comfortable to handle.
Cut a small wedge from the center of each potato, taking care not to slice all the way through the bottom.
Fill each opening with shredded cheddar cheese. Return the potatoes to the oven briefly if needed, just until the cheese begins to melt.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Add a dollop of sour cream, then sprinkle each potato bite with chopped chives and crumbled bacon bits.
1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup chopped chives, 1 cup crumbled bacon bits
Arrange the loaded potato bites on a serving platter and enjoy while warm.
Notes
Makes approximately 18-24 potato bites
Refrigerator: Store leftover loaded potato bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For better results, remove any sour cream you can and add a fresh dollop after reheating.
Freezer: Freeze the baked potatoes before adding the sour cream, chives, and bacon. Place them in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding the toppings.
Pickthe right potatoes: Select baby potatoes with smooth, unbroken skins. Damaged areas can split further as the potatoes roast.
Dry the potatoes thoroughly after washing them. Excess water creates steam and prevents the skins from becoming crispy.
Give them a little space: Crowding the pan traps moisture and can make the skins soft.
Check the doneness: Test the largest potato before removing the pan from the oven. If the largest one is tender, the smaller potatoes should be ready too.
Grate cheddar from a block when possible: Bagged shredded cheese often contains a coating that can keep it from melting as smoothly.