Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks

Imagine golden, crispy potato sticks filled with gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of fresh herbs. If you’re a fan of comfort food and crave a savory, cheesy snack, these Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are about to become your new favorite treat. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or just indulging in a late-night craving, these cheesy, potato-packed delights will always be a hit. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks

Here’s why these potato and cheese sticks will quickly become your go-to snack:

Irresistibly Cheesy:

Who can resist that ooey-gooey melted cheese on the inside? It’s the perfect balance with the crispy, golden exterior.

Flavor Packed:

These sticks are loaded with the savory goodness of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh green onions—everything you love in a loaded potato, but in stick form!

Easy to Make:

It might look like a gourmet snack, but they’re surprisingly easy to put together! With a few simple steps, you’ll have these delicious sticks ready to devour in no time.

Versatile:

Serve them as an appetizer for a party, pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as a tasty side to a main meal. They fit every occasion!

Ingredients in Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks

Let’s break down the magic of these sticks, made with ingredients you likely have in your kitchen:

For the Potato Mixture:

• Russet Potatoes: The star of the dish! Russet potatoes have the perfect texture for frying, becoming crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds that sharp, rich flavor that pairs so well with the potatoes.
• Cream Cheese: A little cream cheese for extra creaminess and a smooth texture.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory, salty bite that elevates these potato sticks to the next level.
• Green Onions: For a fresh, slightly tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the cheese and bacon.
• Garlic Powder: For a savory depth of flavor in the potato mixture.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, to make sure everything is perfectly seasoned.

For the Coating:

• Breadcrumbs: A crunchy breadcrumb coating that gets golden and crispy in the fryer or oven.
• Egg: To help the breadcrumbs stick and form a crispy outer layer.
• Flour: For a light coating that gives the outer crust that perfect golden crunch.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by peeling and boiling the russet potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain them well and let them cool slightly. Once they’re cool enough to handle, mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth. You can leave a few small lumps if you like a little texture.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, crumbled crispy bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Sticks

Scoop a spoonful of the potato mixture and roll it into a small log shape. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into little sticks. You can make them as long or short as you like, but around 2-3 inches long works perfectly.

Step 4: Coat the Sticks

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add some flour. In the second, beat an egg. In the third, add the breadcrumbs. Dip each potato stick into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go.

Step 5: Fry or Bake the Sticks

• To Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F/175°C), fry the potato sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded potato sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the loaded potato and cheese sticks immediately while they’re hot and crispy. These are perfect with a side of ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a spicy dipping sauce.

How to Serve Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks

These loaded potato and cheese sticks are amazing on their own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty sides:

Dipping Sauces:

Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or even a spicy ketchup for a kick.

Fresh Salad:

Pair with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the sticks.

Grilled Meat:

Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or burgers for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress.

Veggies:

Roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans make a great side to add some color and nutrients to your plate.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks turn out perfectly every time:

Don’t Overfill the Potato Sticks:

When shaping the potato sticks, don’t overstuff them. If they’re packed too tightly, they might burst open during cooking.

Make Ahead:

You can make these sticks ahead of time by prepping them up to the breading step and storing them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook them when you’re ready to serve.

Customization:

Feel free to get creative with your filling! You can add other ingredients like jalapeños for heat, or experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.

Keep the Oil Hot:

If frying, make sure the oil is hot enough to cook the sticks quickly and evenly. If it’s not hot enough, the sticks might absorb too much oil and become soggy.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 stick (based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 9g (14% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (15% DV)
• Cholesterol: 40mg (13% DV)
• Sodium: 280mg (12% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 17g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 10% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (frying) / 20 minutes (baking)
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

A1: Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just be sure to cook them until soft, and keep in mind that the texture might be a little different.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can prep them in advance! Shape and coat the potato sticks, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q3: Can I bake these instead of frying them?

A3: Absolutely! Baking them is a healthier option. Just make sure to spray them with cooking spray to get that golden, crispy finish.

Q4: Can I make these vegetarian?

A4: Yes! Simply omit the bacon, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version. You can also add more cheese or some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftover potato sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up.

Q6: Can I freeze these?

A6: Yes! You can freeze the breaded potato sticks before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook, just fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Q7: Can I use other types of cheese?

A7: Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a fun twist.

Q8: Can I add other toppings or fillings?

A8: Absolutely! You can add diced onions, bell peppers, or even sautéed spinach to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Q9: Are these gluten-free?

A9: These are not gluten-free as they contain breadcrumbs and flour, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make them gluten-free.

Q10: Can I make these in an air fryer?

A10: Yes, you can air fry these for a crispy exterior without the oil. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

These Loaded Potato and Cheese Sticks are the perfect snack or side dish that combines all the flavors you love about loaded potatoes—cheese, bacon, and garlic—in a fun, crispy, and portable form. Whether you’re making them for a party or just as a treat for yourself, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Go ahead, give them a try, and prepare for a deliciously cheesy experience!

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