Have you ever wondered how to take your leftover mashed potatoes to the next level? If you’re tired of the usual side dish routine, these Crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls are here to save the day! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering treat that’s crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a fun dinner idea, these potato balls are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking and turn those leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary!
Ingredients :
For the Mashed Potato Mixture:
- 2 cups of mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped chives or green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Breading and Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The cheese will add a nice richness, while the chives give a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the potato mixture and roll it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For best results, refrigerate the balls for about 15-20 minutes to help them firm up, making them easier to handle during the breading process.
Step 3: Bread the Potato Balls
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Take each potato ball and roll it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. The panko gives these potato balls their signature crispy exterior.
Step 4: Fry the Potato Balls
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded potato balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the potato balls from the oil, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delicious Crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or a tangy marinara sauce. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Notes:
- Mashed Potato Consistency: Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too soft or runny, as this can make shaping the balls difficult. If needed, you can add a bit of flour to the mixture to help firm it up.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to give your potato balls a unique flavor twist.
- Baking Option: For a lighter option, you can bake the potato balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even crisping.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these potato balls in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the potato balls and bread them up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry or bake them.
Q: What can I serve with these potato balls? A: These potato balls are great on their own but also pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream, spicy aioli, or even barbecue sauce.
Q: Can I freeze these potato balls? A: Absolutely! After shaping and breading the potato balls, freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: How can I prevent the potato balls from falling apart while frying? A: Chilling the shaped potato balls before breading and frying helps them hold together better. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent them from absorbing too much oil and becoming mushy.
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe? A: Yes! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are cold and firm before you start shaping the balls.
These Crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. They bring a whole new level of flavor and texture to the table, making them a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Enjoy your cooking and, most importantly, enjoy every bite!
For another delicious dessert, check out this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie.