Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe

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If you’re craving something warm, indulgent, and absolutely addictive, Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. These golden, crunchy bites hide a luscious, cheesy, and velvety center that feels like a comforting hug with every mouthful. Perfect as a party snack or a comforting side, this recipe transforms humble mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easier to make than you might think.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the secret to making these Fried Mashed Potato Balls truly shine. Each element plays a unique role, ensuring the perfect balance of creamy inside and crispy outside while layering flavor and color.

• 2 cups mashed potatoes: Using leftover mashed potatoes works best since they’re thicker and hold together better.
• 1/4 cup grated cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese adds a melty, savory surprise inside.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides gentle depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, bright touch and a splash of green color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and adds structure to the crust.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the binding agent to hold the coating on the balls.
• 2 cups breadcrumbs: Panko is preferred for a light, extra crispy crust.
• Vegetable oil: For frying to golden perfection.
• Bacon bits: Adds a smoky, salty crunch when used as a filling or topping.
• Chopped onions: Great for mixing in or sprinkling on top to elevate flavor.
• Cheese cubes: Create a gooey, melty center inside each ball.

How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

Start with your 2 cups of mashed potatoes, ideally leftover so they’re firm, which makes shaping easier. Stir in the grated cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, tasting as you go so the flavors come alive perfectly.

Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, portion out small amounts of the potato mixture and roll into balls about the size of a golf ball. For a surprise inside, press your thumb into the center of each ball, insert a cheese cube or a pinch of bacon bits, then carefully reshape the ball to seal the filling within.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

Create an assembly line with three shallow bowls prepared for dredging the balls. The first bowl holds the flour, helping the coating stick evenly on the surface.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs

In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy. This step ensures your breadcrumb coating adheres perfectly.

Step 5: Breadcrumb Coating

Fill the third bowl with breadcrumbs. For an extra flavor boost, you can mix in grated Parmesan or herbs. These breadcrumbs will crisp up beautifully in the frying process.

Step 6: Frying to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in your potato balls, frying them in batches for 2-3 minutes until they turn irresistibly golden brown and crunchy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp.

Step 7: Plate Your Creation

Arrange your Fried Mashed Potato Balls on a serving platter, inviting everyone to dive in. Serve alongside ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy dipping sauce to add another layer of flavor excitement.

Step 8: Enjoy Every Bite

Now comes the best part—digging into these Fried Mashed Potato Balls and savoring the creamy, cheesy center combined with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Each bite is a little moment of comfort and joy.

How to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the look and taste of your crispy treasures. These touches add a bright pop of color and an extra flavor dimension that guests will appreciate.

Side Dishes

Pair these Fried Mashed Potato Balls with fresh green salads, grilled vegetables, or even alongside a hearty soup. Their creamy texture complements lighter sides while adding satisfying crunch and comfort to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual get-together, serve the balls skewered with cocktail sticks for easy grabbing. You can also make a dipping station with various sauces like chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or herbed aioli to spice things up. Another idea is to nestle them on a bed of leafy greens or roasted garlic aioli, turning this simple snack into an elegant appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They’ll maintain their texture well enough to enjoy again without losing that tasty creaminess inside.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked potato balls before frying. Arrange them spaced apart on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the Fried Mashed Potato Balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! Just make sure your mashed potatoes are relatively thick and well-chilled before forming the balls. Fresh mashed potatoes that are too soft or warm can be tricky to shape without falling apart.

What cheeses work best for these potato balls?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or any semi-soft cheese that melts easily are perfect choices. You can mix and match or even try sharper cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Is it possible to bake the potato balls instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. The crust won’t be quite as crispy as frying but it’s a delicious, lighter alternative.

Can I add other fillings besides cheese and bacon?

Definitely! Diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions make fantastic fillings. Just be careful not to overstuff to keep the balls intact while frying.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the top quickly without burning.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re serving them as a crunchy, creamy snack or a delicious side dish, Fried Mashed Potato Balls – A Crispy, Creamy Appetizer or Side Dish Recipe is a guaranteed hit that brings comfort and joy to any table. Don’t be surprised if these delightful bites become a regular request in your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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