If you’re craving something both crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, you have to try Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe. These golden bites bring together the comfort of mashed potatoes with a crunchy coating that gives way to a luscious cheesy center or savory fillings like bacon bits. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a cozy snack, these fried mashed potato balls hit all the right notes, blending texture and flavor in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the star here, each playing a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and that irresistible crispiness. From the mashed potatoes to the coating, every element contributes to the magic.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for thicker, easier-to-shape balls with a rich potato flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese adds gooey texture and cheesy goodness inside.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: Extra creaminess that makes the inside perfectly smooth and moist.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Subtle savory depth kicks up the flavor without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a gentle onion aroma.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of fresh color and a mild herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the potato’s natural flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The first step in creating a crispy outer shell that holds everything together.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Binds the coating layers and helps the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Panko): Provides that signature crunch when fried to golden perfection.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral oil ideal for achieving a crisp, golden exterior.
- Bacon bits (optional): For a smoky, salty surprise inside each ball.
- Chopped onions (optional): Add sweetness and additional texture to the filling.
- Cheese cubes (optional): A gooey core for a delightful cheesy burst in every bite.
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Mashed Potato Filling
Start with your mashed potatoes, making sure they’re thick—leftover mashed potatoes work beautifully here. Stir in the grated cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley if you’re using it. Then give the mixture a quick taste test and season with salt and pepper to suit your liking. This mixture is the foundation of your fried mashed potato balls, combining creamy, savory, and herbaceous flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls
Now comes the fun part: forming your potato balls. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, grab a small amount of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball around the size of a golf ball. If you want to surprise your guests, press your thumb into the center to create a small well and fill it with cheese cubes or bacon bits before reshaping the ball to seal the filling inside. This little hidden treasure makes each bite extra special.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls to create an assembly line. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. The second bowl will hold the beaten eggs, and the third bowl is for your breadcrumbs. You can even stir in some grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick. This preparation ensures each potato ball gets a perfect, even coating that crisps beautifully.
Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls
Roll each potato ball first in the flour, tossing off the excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Make sure every inch is covered; this triple coating is what delivers that satisfying crunch when fried.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry your potato balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes each, turning gently to brown all sides evenly. Once they reach that perfect golden brown color, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. The result will be irresistible crispy spheres with creamy centers waiting for you to dig in.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe on a platter with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether it’s classic ketchup, a cooling ranch, or a spicy aioli, these bites are ready to be devoured by happy friends and family.
How to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives over the potato balls right before serving for a touch of green and fresh aroma. You can also dust them with a little grated Parmesan or paprika to boost both color and flavor, making the presentation just as exciting as the taste.
Side Dishes
These crispy gems pair incredibly well alongside a fresh garden salad, steamed veggies, or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, serve them next to grilled chicken or steak and watch how they elevate the entire dinner experience with their comforting blend of textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Put a spin on your presentation by serving the fried mashed potato balls on skewers with alternating cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a colorful appetizer. You could also hollow out small mini bell peppers or tomatoes to nestle the potato balls inside, adding flair and surprise to any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers—though it’s hard to resist—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or addition to your next meal.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked shaped potato balls before breading or after frying. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly when frying from frozen.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat fried mashed potato balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and crisp once again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure your mashed potatoes are thick and well-drained. Freshly made mashed potatoes tend to be wetter, so adding a little extra flour or chilling them beforehand can help with shaping and frying.
What cheeses work best for the filling?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack to suit your taste.
Is it necessary to fry the potato balls, or can I bake them?
While frying gives you that unbeatable crispy crust, baking is a healthier alternative. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure all other ingredients, like sour cream and seasoning blends, are certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious version.
Can I add other fillings besides cheese and bacon?
Definitely! You can get creative by adding cooked mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or even caramelized onions to the filling for unique flavor combinations that delight every palate.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Whether you make them as a party appetizer or a comforting side, these golden, flavorful bites are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this tasty adventure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy and creamy appetizer or side dish made from leftover mashed potatoes mixed with cheese and seasonings, then breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. These delightful bites can be stuffed with gooey cheese cubes or savory bacon bits for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover mashed potatoes)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Breading Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
Filling Options
- Bacon bits
- Chopped onions
- Cheese cubes (for stuffing)
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of mashed potatoes with grated cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
- Form the Potato Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape small portions of the potato mixture into golf ball-sized balls. For stuffed versions, press your thumb into the center of each ball and add a cheese cube or a spoonful of bacon bits, then carefully reshape to seal the filling inside.
- Set Up Breading Station – Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl or plate for the first coating stage.
- Set Up Breading Station – Eggs: Beat the eggs in a separate shallow bowl to be used as the second coating layer.
- Set Up Breading Station – Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow bowl, spread out the breadcrumbs. Optionally, mix in grated Parmesan for added flavor.
- Bread the Potato Balls: Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C), suitable for deep frying.
- Fry the Potato Balls: Carefully drop the breaded potato balls into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Arrange the fried mashed potato balls on a platter and serve with your choice of ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
- Enjoy: Savor the delightful contrast of the crispy exterior with the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful interior of the mashed potato balls.
Notes
- Use cold, leftover mashed potatoes for better texture and easier shaping.
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped cooked bacon or sautéed onions into the potato mixture.
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying to ensure a crispy coating and avoid sogginess.
- You can keep fried potato balls warm in an oven set at 200°F (95°C) while frying the remaining batches.
- These potato balls can be made ahead and frozen before frying; fry them directly from frozen, adding extra time to cook.
