Carolina Reaper Cheesy Potato Bites Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 Carolina Reaper pepper, finely chopped (use gloves when handling)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite melting cheese)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream or ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

   • Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

3. Add Carolina Reaper:

   • Add the finely chopped Carolina Reaper pepper to the bowl with the cooked potatoes. Be cautious and avoid touching your face or eyes after handling the pepper.

4. Mash and Season:

   • Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes and Carolina Reaper pepper together until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add Cheese:

   • Fold in the shredded cheese into the mashed potato mixture until well combined.

6. Form Potato Bites:

   • Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the potato balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.

7. Bake:

   • Drizzle the potato balls with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the potato bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove the potato bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped chives if desired.

9. Enjoy:

   • Serve these Carolina Reaper Cheesy Potato Bites as a spicy and flavorful appetizer or snack. Dip them in sour cream or ranch dressing for a cool contrast to the heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper. Enjoy the bold flavors and fiery kick of these unique and delicious potato bites!

Note: Handle Carolina Reaper peppers with caution, as they are extremely spicy. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling and avoid touching sensitive areas of your body. Adjust the amount of Carolina Reaper pepper according to your heat tolerance.