Fried Mashed Potato Balls have become a beloved comfort food that transforms plain leftovers into a crispy, cheesy delight. These delicious bites are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, and they are filled with gooey cheese, making them a hit at any gathering. The golden crunch of the fried exterior combined with the soft, cheesy center creates a mouthwatering experience. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful snacks that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Mashed Potato Balls

These Fried Mashed Potato Balls are not just easy to make, but they also bring joy to your palate. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore them:

They are perfect for using up leftover mashed potato recipes.
These crispy potato balls are a fantastic appetizer or snack option.
They can be customized with different fillings like bacon or herbs.
They are quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
These bites pair wonderfully with best dipping sauces for potato balls.
They fit well within a vegetarian diet, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

Enjoy the delightful crunch of these potato croquettes, which are ideal for any occasion!

Ingredients for Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Gather these items:

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Scoop the mixture into 1-2 inch balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm them up.
Step 3: Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Dip each potato ball in flour, then egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until well coated.
Step 5: Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Step 6: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Fried Mashed Potato Balls: 5 Comforting Recipes to Savor - Fried Mashed Potato Balls - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your mashed potatoes are cold before mixing; this helps with forming the balls.
Experiment with different cheeses or herbs for unique flavors.
Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.

Best Ways to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls

These fried potato dumplings are delicious on their own, but they are even better with a dip! Consider serving them with:

Ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic touch.
Spicy ketchup or Sriracha for a kick.
Garlic aioli or creamy ranch for a delightful pairing.

How to Store and Reheat Fried Mashed Potato Balls

To keep your Fried Mashed Potato Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy texture, making them a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Mashed Potato Balls

What’s the secret to perfect Fried Mashed Potato Balls?

The secret lies in ensuring your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned and cold before shaping them. This helps in forming perfect balls that hold their shape while frying.

Can I make Fried Mashed Potato Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the potato balls ahead of time and freeze them. Fry them just before serving for a fresh, hot appetizer.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Fried Mashed Potato Balls?

Avoid making the balls too large, as they may not cook evenly. Ensure they are well-coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.

Variations of Fried Mashed Potato Balls You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your fried mashed potato ball variations. Here are a few ideas:

Add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Incorporate herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a gooey center.

These variations allow you to customize your fried mashed potato snacks to suit your taste!

Fried Mashed Potato Balls: 5 Comforting Recipes to Savor

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These crispy fried mashed potato balls are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, filled with cheesy goodness and fried to golden perfection.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Scoop the mixture into 1-2 inch balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm them up.
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each potato ball in flour, then egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until well coated.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.