Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Introduction

Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes are a bite-sized version of the classic loaded baked potato, packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and all the delicious toppings you love. These little potatoes are perfect for parties, appetizers, or as a fun side dish to complement any meal. With crispy skin, fluffy interiors, and a combination of bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions, these mini baked potatoes are sure to be a crowd favorite.

I first made these when I wanted to create a fun, shareable snack for a gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of textures—from the crispy skin to the soft, fluffy interior—makes each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a casual meal at home, these mini baked potatoes will be a hit with everyone. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, like jalapeños, chives, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.

What’s great about Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes is how easy they are to make. They’re simple to prepare, yet they look and taste impressive. With just a few ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can have a delicious snack or side dish that everyone will love. These bite-sized treats are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy all the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato in a convenient, handheld form.

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Family dinners
• Holiday gatherings
• Potato lovers

Why You’ll Love This Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Here’s why Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes will become your new go-to appetizer:

• Crispy Skin: These mini potatoes have crispy, golden-brown skin that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• Cheesy and Creamy: The cheese and sour cream filling is rich and indulgent, creating a creamy contrast to the crispy potato.
• Bacon and Green Onion: Crispy bacon and fresh green onions add a burst of savory flavor and a pop of color.
• Fun Size: These mini potatoes are perfect for snacking or serving at parties, as they’re easy to eat in one bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with your toppings—add jalapeños for spice, or swap bacon for another protein like sausage or pulled pork.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24 mini potatoes (about 2-3 per person)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-130 calories per potato
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes:

• 12-16 baby potatoes (small, round potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 strips)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are the perfect size for mini loaded baked potatoes, with a tender interior and a skin that crisps up beautifully when baked.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is the classic choice for a rich, melty topping that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potato.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty, savory flavor that enhances the richness of the sour cream and cheese.
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a mild, crisp bite that balances the richness of the toppings and adds color to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and Dry the Potatoes: Scrub the baby potatoes clean under running water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Coat with Oil and Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss them to coat evenly. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the skins are golden and crispy.

Assemble the Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes:

5. Cut the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked and slightly cooled, use a sharp knife to slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out a small amount of the potato flesh to create space for the toppings, leaving a small border of potato around the skin.
6. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the scooped-out potato flesh with sour cream and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy.
7. Fill the Potatoes: Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins, dividing it evenly among all the potatoes.

Top the Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes:

8. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the filled potatoes with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
9. Melt the Cheese: Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As Appetizers: Serve these mini potatoes on a platter for a delicious appetizer at parties, game days, or gatherings.
• As a Side Dish: Pair them with grilled meats, steaks, or burgers for a hearty and satisfying side.
• For Snack Time: These bite-sized potatoes are perfect for a quick snack or when you want a small, flavorful treat.
• With a Dip: Serve them with extra sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup for dipping.

Additional Tips for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Here are some tips to ensure your Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes turn out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the potatoes enough space to crisp up properly by spacing them out on the baking sheet.
• Use a Melon Baller: If you want to scoop out the potato flesh more easily, use a melon baller to create the perfect hollow.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sautéed mushrooms, shredded chicken, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the potatoes ahead of time by baking them and filling them with the mashed potato mixture, then refrigerating them until ready to bake with the toppings.

Recipe Variations for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Here are 10 variations you can try for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes:

• Buffalo Chicken Mini Loaded Potatoes: Add shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Mini Loaded Potatoes: Top with BBQ pulled pork for a Southern-inspired version.
• Vegetarian Mini Loaded Potatoes: Skip the bacon and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
• Chili Cheese Mini Loaded Potatoes: Top with chili and extra cheese for a hearty, comforting variation.
• Spicy Jalapeño Mini Loaded Potatoes: Add sliced jalapeños and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Bacon Cheddar Ranch Mini Loaded Potatoes: Mix ranch seasoning into the mashed potato filling for a zesty twist.
• Mexican Mini Loaded Potatoes: Add black beans, salsa, and guacamole for a Tex-Mex flair.
• Mushroom and Swiss Mini Loaded Potatoes: Top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy, savory option.
• Cheeseburger Mini Loaded Potatoes: Add cooked ground beef, pickles, and American cheese for a mini burger-inspired snack.
• Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Mini Loaded Potatoes: Add a spinach and artichoke dip mixture to the mashed potato filling for a rich, savory treat.

Freezing and Storage for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

• Freezing: To freeze Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes, assemble the potatoes with the mashed filling and toppings, but do not bake. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover mini loaded baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to re-crisp the skin.

Special Equipment for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

Here are some tools that will make preparing Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes easier:

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for baking the mini potatoes and ensuring they crisp up evenly.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice the potatoes neatly and easily scoop out the filling.
• Spoon or Melon Baller: Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the potato flesh without damaging the skins.
• Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet and potatoes.
• Serving Platter: A large platter makes it easy to serve these mini potatoes at parties or gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions for Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes

1. Can I use regular-sized potatoes instead of mini potatoes?
   Yes, you can use larger potatoes. Just slice them into smaller pieces after baking and adjust the baking time accordingly.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to the point of baking them with the toppings, then refrigerate them and bake them when ready to serve.
3. Can I make these vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon and use extra cheese or vegetables as toppings for a vegetarian version.
4. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
   The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender, and the skin is golden and crispy. When you cut them in half, the insides should be soft and fluffy.
5. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
   Yes, these potatoes freeze well. Just follow the freezing and reheating instructions for best results.

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Conclusion

Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion, offering all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a fun and convenient form. They are crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory toppings like bacon and green onions. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a snack, or using them as a side dish, these mini potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone!

This recipe is as simple to prepare as it is delicious, making it perfect for casual gatherings or special celebrations. The crispy exterior and creamy, loaded interior provide the perfect combination of textures and flavors in every bite.

I’d love to see how your Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!