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Ingredients
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KD Bites (main)
Dipping sauce (optional)
Fries (served with)
Method
KD Bites (main)
- 1
Mix filling
In a large bowl combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1 cup bread crumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 3 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Mix with your hands or a spoon just until evenly combined — avoid overmixing to keep bites tender.
- 2
Form bites
Portion the mixture into roughly 16 equal pieces (about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons each). Roll each portion into a compact ball and lightly flatten into a small patty or nugget shape about 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly.
- 3
Preheat oil
Pour 1 cup vegetable oil into a heavy skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch and heat over medium-high until shimmering and a small breadcrumb sizzles on contact (about 350°F / 175°C). If you prefer, these can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes turning halfway — see alternate step below.
- 4
Fry bites
Working in batches to avoid crowding, add bites to the hot oil and cook 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into center reads 160°F (71°C). Transfer to a paper towel–lined tray to drain.
- 5
Alternative: Bake
If baking, arrange bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet sprayed lightly with oil. Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 12–15 minutes, flip once halfway, until golden and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Dipping sauce (optional)
- 6
Stir together 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1 teaspoon mayonnaise in a small ramekin. Serve alongside KD Bites for dipping.
Fries (served with)
- 7
If using frozen fries
Cook 1 lb frozen fries according to package instructions (bake or air-fry) and season with 1 tsp salt while hot.
- 8
If making fresh fries (deep-fry)
Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Rinse and dry cut potato fries, blanch in oil 3–4 minutes until tender but not brown, remove and drain. Increase oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry 1–2 minutes more until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with 1 tsp salt.