If you have a craving for something crispy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, then this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. These golden, perfectly crunchy orbs filled with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar, and savory bacon bits will quickly become one of your favorite snacks or appetizers. The combination of textures and flavors is nothing short of magical, making it an irresistible treat for family gatherings, game days, or whenever you want a little cozy indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is all about simple ingredients that come together to create remarkable flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role—from the fluffiness of the mashed potatoes to the crispy breadcrumb coating that gives these bites their delightful crunch.
- Cold mashed potatoes: The star of the show, using cold potatoes helps the mixture hold together better for frying.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melty cheesiness inside each ball.
- Cooked bacon bits (optional): Introduces a smoky, savory depth that complements the potatoes.
- Chopped green onions or chives: For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.
- Garlic powder: Elevates the flavor with a subtle garlicky warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and boosting all the other flavors.
- Large egg (beaten): Acts as a binder to keep the potato balls together.
- Breadcrumbs: Mixed in and used for coating to create an extra crispy crust.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the breadcrumbs stick better and adds to the crunch.
- Oil for frying: A neutral oil works best for achieving a golden, crispy surface.
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Potato Base
Start by combining the cold mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar, bacon bits if you’re using them, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Then stir in the beaten egg and breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together well but stays soft and pliable. This base is packed with flavor and is key to making your potato balls both creamy inside and crispy outside.
Step 2: Shape and Chill
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them gently into balls. Placing them in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes helps them firm up, making the frying process easier and preventing them from falling apart. This chilling step is a small time investment that pays off with perfect texture.
Step 3: Coat for Crunch
Before frying, roll each chilled ball lightly in flour to create a dry surface, then coat thoroughly with additional breadcrumbs. This double coating step guarantees a satisfyingly crispy and golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft potato center.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, so each ball fries evenly and keeps its crisp texture. Drain on paper towels before serving to remove any excess oil.
How to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These bites can shine all on their own, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives takes them over the top visually and flavor-wise. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add a stunning finishing touch.
Side Dishes
They pair wonderfully with fresh green salads, tangy coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. If you’re entertaining, offering a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or spicy aioli makes them feel even more special and interactive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming party presentation, serve these potato balls on decorative toothpicks alongside a trio of dipping sauces. You can even stuff them with surprise fillings like jalapeño slices, ham, or different cheeses to suit your mood and guests’ tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready to be reheated for a quick snack or side.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. After shaping and chilling your potato balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen, they keep up to a month. When you’re ready, fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to cooking time.
Reheating
To keep that perfect crispiness, reheat leftover potato balls in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This method refreshes the crust while warming them through without becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe?
It’s best to use cold leftover mashed potatoes because they hold together better when forming the balls. Fresh, warm mashed potatoes tend to be too soft and can make the mixture difficult to handle.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
While cheddar is classic for its flavor and meltiness, you can experiment with mozzarella for a stretchier inside or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing cheeses also creates exciting flavor profiles.
Is frying the only way to cook these potato balls?
You can bake the balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes for a lighter option. They won’t be quite as crispy as frying, but they still turn out delicious and are perfect for a healthier twist.
Can the recipe be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon bits and perhaps add extra cheese or herbs for additional flavor. This dish easily adapts to vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste.
Are there any good dipping sauces to pair with Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe?
Sour cream, ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or even a creamy garlic aioli make excellent companions. Try a few to find your favorite flavor combo!
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly wonderful about this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, serving them as a fun appetizer, or simply treating yourself, these crispy, cheesy bites are pure comfort food joy. Give it a go and watch how quickly your crowd disappears them one by one!
Print
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 balls
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fried Mashed Potato Balls are crispy, golden-brown snacks made from leftover mashed potatoes blended with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties or as a comforting snack, offering a cheesy and savory flavor with a delightfully crispy crust.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, optional bacon bits, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beaten egg and 3/4 cup of breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together firmly.
- Form Balls and Chill: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls in the fridge and chill for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up and maintain their shape during frying.
- Coat the Balls: Lightly roll each chilled potato ball in all-purpose flour, then coat thoroughly with additional breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy outer crust after frying.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry Potato Balls: Fry the mashed potato balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, for 2–3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried potato balls with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Serve hot with sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for the best texture.
- Customize by adding herbs, jalapeños, or swapping different cheeses to vary flavor.
- For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
