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Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

These crispy, cheesy fried mashed potato balls are a delicious appetizer made by transforming leftover mashed potatoes into golden bite-sized treats. Infused with sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned with garlic and chives, these balls are coated in a crunchy panko crust and fried to perfection, perfect for serving as a savory snack or party appetizer.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 19 mashed potato balls

Ingredients

Mashed Potato Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold from fridge from previous 1-3 days)
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (packed)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 TBSP chopped chives or scallions
  • ⅛ tsp salt and pepper

Coating

  • ¼-⅓ cup flour
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

Frying

  • Oil for frying (avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil), about 2-3 inches depth

Optional

  • Sour cream for dipping

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes: In a medium bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly with a large spoon until evenly blended.
  2. Scoop into Balls: Using a small cookie scoop (about 2 teaspoons capacity), scoop the potato mixture and roll each scoop into a tight ball no larger than 1 inch in diameter. If the balls are too soft to hold their shape, chill in the fridge for 10-20 minutes to firm up.
  3. Prepare the Coating: Place the flour, beaten egg (whisked until combined), and panko breadcrumbs each into separate shallow bowls. Dredge each potato ball first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even, full coating.
  4. Fry the Mashed Potato Balls: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a small pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add 3-4 potato balls at a time using a slotted spoon. Stir gently at the beginning to prevent sticking. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until evenly golden brown and crispy all over. Remove with the slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining potato balls until all are cooked.
  5. Serve: Enjoy the fried mashed potato balls hot and crispy. Serve with sour cream or your preferred dip for dunking.

Notes

  • Using cold mashed potatoes helps the balls hold their shape better when frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the oil during frying to maintain proper temperature and crispiness.
  • If you don’t have a cookie scoop, measuring out 2 teaspoons per ball works well too.
  • These potato balls are best eaten fresh and hot for the best texture and flavor.
  • You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor variations.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/cheesy-fried-mashed-potato-balls-recipe/