Few things in the world of food are as universally loved as fried potatoes. Crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside—these potato bites are pure comfort food. What makes them extra special is the addition of cornstarch, which helps create that golden, crunchy coating everyone craves. Paired with a cool, tangy garlic herb yogurt dip, this recipe transforms a simple snack into something you’ll want to make over and over again. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these crispy potato bites are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most rewarding.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

• Water, enough for boiling the potatoes

• Salt, to taste

• 100 g (3.5 oz) cornstarch

• Olive oil, for frying

Garlic Herb Yogurt Dip

• 200 g (1 cup) plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

2. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and allow them to cool slightly. Mash them until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.

3. Add the cornstarch and a pinch of salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until a dough-like consistency forms. This mixture should hold together when pressed.

4. Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties. Place them on a tray while you prepare for frying.

5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop in the potato bites. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3–4 minutes per batch.

6. Remove the potato bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt while still warm.

7. To prepare the dip, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

8. Serve the crispy potato bites hot, paired with the refreshing garlic herb yogurt dip. Enjoy immediately for the best crunch.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~220 kcal per serving (including dip)

• Protein: ~6 g

• Fat: ~9 g

• Carbohydrates: ~31 g

• Fiber: ~3 g

• Calcium: ~80 mg

• Vitamin C: ~20% of daily needs

• Iron: ~6% of daily needs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything a snack should be—crispy, savory, and utterly addictive. You’ll love how the cornstarch transforms the mashed potatoes into perfectly crunchy bites while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. The garlic herb yogurt dip adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the fried potatoes, making every bite balanced. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you serve it as a party appetizer, a side dish, or a simple comfort food treat, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Potatoes have long been a staple ingredient in kitchens around the world, loved for their versatility and satisfying nature. Fried potato snacks, from French fries to croquettes, are classic comfort foods. This recipe draws inspiration from croquettes but simplifies the process by using cornstarch to bind and crisp the potatoes instead of breading. The dip is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, where yogurt-based sauces with garlic and herbs are common. The combination bridges comfort food with freshness, giving you the best of both worlds.

Ingredient Spotlight

Potatoes are the foundation of this dish. Starchy potatoes, such as Russets, work best because they mash smoothly and crisp up beautifully when fried. Cornstarch is the secret weapon here—it gives the potato bites that irresistible crunch while keeping the insides soft. Olive oil not only adds richness but also enhances the flavor compared to neutral oils. The dip ingredients deserve attention too: Greek yogurt brings protein and creaminess, fresh dill or parsley add brightness, garlic adds punch, and lemon juice ties everything together with acidity.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the potato bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy. Instead, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, or in an air fryer for extra crispness. The garlic herb dip should be stored separately in a covered container in the fridge and will keep fresh for 2–3 days. If you want to prepare ahead, you can form the potato bites and refrigerate them before frying, making them party-ready in minutes.

Common Variations to Try

For extra flavor, mix grated cheese such as Parmesan or cheddar into the potato mixture before shaping. Add finely chopped herbs or spices like paprika, chili powder, or curry for different flavor twists. You can also stuff the bites with a small cube of mozzarella for a gooey surprise inside. For a healthier version, bake the potato bites instead of frying, brushing them with olive oil and baking at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy. As for the dip, try swapping dill for mint, adding chopped cucumbers for a tzatziki-style version, or spicing it up with chili flakes.

Pairing Recommendations

These potato bites pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a game-day spread with wings and sliders. They’re also delicious alongside soups like tomato or chicken noodle, where their crisp texture contrasts nicely with a warm bowl of comfort. For drinks, try pairing them with a crisp lager, sparkling water with lemon, or even a refreshing iced tea. The garlic herb yogurt dip makes them versatile enough to fit into casual snacking or elegant entertaining.

Health Benefits

While fried potatoes are often considered indulgent, this recipe balances things out with the addition of Greek yogurt dip. Potatoes provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, while the yogurt contributes protein, calcium, and probiotics for gut health. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. Using olive oil instead of other frying oils adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. By baking instead of frying, you can make this recipe even lighter without losing its appeal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crispy potato bites with garlic herb yogurt dip are a snack that never goes out of style. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the creamy, tangy dip. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is proof that you don’t need a lot of fuss to make something memorable. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a side dish, or indulging in a solo snack, they deliver comfort and satisfaction every time. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation, experimenting with new variations and dips along the way.