Looking for a delicious appetizer or snack that’s sure to please? These Crispy and Cheesy Potato Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized treat. Made with leftover mashed potatoes, filled with gooey cheese, and fried to golden perfection, they are irresistible and easy to make. Whether you’re entertaining guests, planning a family meal, or just craving something savory, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes, cooled (preferably left over from the day before for better texture)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice, like mozzarella for a gooey center)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works well)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potato Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, grated cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and parsley. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
- Form the Balls:
- Take about a tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. If you prefer larger balls, use more mixture. Continue until all the mixture is used up.
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl, the flour in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Bread the Potato Balls:
- Roll each potato ball in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s completely coated.
- Finally, roll the ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Repeat this process with all the potato balls.
- Fry the Potato Balls:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Carefully add a few potato balls at a time to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the potato cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or sour cream.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- For a different flavor, try using different cheeses like mozzarella for a stretchy center or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- You can add finely chopped bacon bits or ham to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- If you prefer baking over frying, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the potato balls on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
- Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for the coating.
- Ensure the cheese and any additional ingredients used are low-carb friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these potato cheese balls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the potato balls and coat them in breadcrumbs, then refrigerate them for up to a day before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked balls and fry them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the frying time.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying? A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the potato cheese balls on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with potato cheese balls? A: Some great dipping sauces include marinara, ranch dressing, sour cream, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these Potato Cheese Balls are a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to make and versatile, they can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you fry or bake them, serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these cheesy delights are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Potato Cheese Balls!
