Crispy Golden Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe for Comfort Food

Crispy golden fried mashed potato balls bring comfort and crunch to your dinner table in minutes.

Cheese and herbs tucked inside create surprising bursts of flavor for everyone.

Leftover mashed potatoes suddenly become an exciting culinary adventure waiting to happen.

Simple ingredients from your refrigerator transform into delightful bite-sized snacks that spark conversation.

Quick preparation means minimal effort with maximum deliciousness guaranteed.

These irresistible potato spheres promise to vanish faster than you can plate them.

Just wait until people start asking for seconds – and they absolutely will.

Fried Mashed Potato Balls: Cheesy Crowd-Pleaser

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These potato balls pack a punch of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible crowd-favorite snack everyone will love.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up these delectable bites in minimal time, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings or sudden hunger cravings with easy preparation steps.
• Versatile Culinary Creation: Adaptable to different cooking methods like stovetop or air fryer, these potato balls offer flexibility for home cooks with various kitchen equipment.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Crafted from everyday ingredients like mashed potatoes, cheese, and bacon, these balls deliver gourmet taste without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Fried Mashed Potato Ball Magic

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy foundation that gives the balls their soft interior.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky and savory flavor to the potato mixture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, melty element that enhances the overall taste.
• Chives: Brings a mild onion-like freshness to the recipe.

• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle and aromatic flavor to the potato mixture.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile.

• Eggs, Panko Bread Crumbs: Create a crispy, golden exterior that adds crunch and texture to the potato balls.

How to Fry Mashed Potato Balls Like a Pro

Step 1: Craft Potato Mixture

• Crispy crumbled bacon
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Freshly chopped chives
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and create a cohesive blend.

Step 2: Shape Delightful Spheres

Using clean hands, gently roll the potato mixture into compact balls.

Aim for bite-sized rounds approximately 1-2 inches in diameter.

Ensure each ball is tightly packed to prevent falling apart during cooking.

Step 3: Create Crispy Coating

Prepare two separate shallow dishes.

In one, whisk eggs until smooth.

In another, spread panko bread crumbs.

Dunk each potato ball first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.

Immediately roll in panko, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 4: Stovetop Frying Method

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 375°F.

Carefully lower potato balls into hot oil in small batches.

Fry for 2-3 minutes, rotating occasionally to achieve uniform golden-brown color.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Air Fryer Alternative

Arrange coated potato balls in a single layer inside air fryer basket.

Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Shake basket midway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Balls should emerge crispy and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer potato balls to a serving platter.

Accompany with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or sour cream.

Best served immediately while hot and crunchy.

Potato Ball Tips for Perfect Crispiness

• Refrigerate the potato mixture for 30 minutes to help balls hold shape and prevent falling apart during frying.
• If mixture seems too loose, add more breadcrumbs or cheese to help bind ingredients together for easier shaping.
• Select high-quality cheddar and crispy bacon for maximum flavor depth in your potato balls.
• Maintain consistent 375F oil temperature to ensure crispy exterior and evenly cooked interior without greasiness.
• Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.

Mashed Potato Ball Mix-In Ideas

• Vegetarian Potato Bites: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for a meat-free version that's packed with flavor.
• Gluten-Free Potato Spheres: Swap panko bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond meal for a celiac-friendly alternative.
• Spicy Jalapeño Poppers Fusion: Mix in diced jalapeños and cream cheese for a zesty, southwestern-inspired potato ball that brings extra heat.
• Herb Garden Potato Rounds: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to create an aromatic, garden-fresh variation that elevates the classic recipe.

Serve Potato Balls as Irresistible Bites

• Picnic Perfect Poppers: Pack these crispy potato balls in a portable container for outdoor gatherings and lunch boxes.
• Party Appetizer Platter: Arrange on a beautiful serving board with small dipping sauces like ranch, sriracha mayo, or herbed aioli for elegant entertaining.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Serve hot alongside chicken wings and cold beer for a delicious sports watching snack that guests will devour quickly.
• Brunch Side Sensation: Complement egg dishes and breakfast platters with these cheesy potato bites for a hearty morning meal complement.

Keep Potato Balls Crispy for Later

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual potato balls in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Preheat to 375F. Spread potato balls on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve crunchiness.
• Place cold potato balls in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350F for 4-5 minutes, shaking halfway through to ensure even heating and restore original crispiness.

FAQs

• How do I prevent the mashed potato balls from falling apart during frying?

Make sure your mashed potatoes are cold and firm. Mix in eggs and breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients together. Chill the formed balls in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before coating and frying to help them maintain their shape.

• Can I make these potato balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato balls in advance. Form the balls and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for storage up to 1 month.

• What can I do if my potato mixture seems too wet?

Add more breadcrumbs or refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help it firm up. If still too soft, incorporate a bit more cheese.

Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy golden Fried Mashed Potato Balls elevate leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful appetizer with irresistible crunch. Cheese, herbs, and a perfectly seasoned coating make these bite-sized treats an instant crowd-pleaser for gatherings or quick snacks.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Seasoning and Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Binding and Coating:

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Blend the creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar, freshly chopped chives, aromatic garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
2. Using clean hands, shape the potato mixture into uniform round spheres approximately 1-2 inches in diameter, ensuring each ball is compact and holds together well.
3. Create a coating station: dip each potato sphere into beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then roll generously in panko bread crumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage.
4. For stovetop method, heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 375°F. Carefully lower potato balls into the hot oil, frying in small batches for 2-3 minutes until they transform into a rich, golden brown color.
5. Alternatively, for air fryer technique, arrange potato balls in a single layer inside the basket. Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, rotating midway to ensure uniform crispiness and color.
6. Once cooked, transfer potato balls to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, allowing them to cool slightly before serving hot and crispy.

Notes

• Prevent Sticking when forming balls by keeping hands slightly damp with cold water, which helps potato mixture hold shape without clumping.
• Enhance Flavor Potential by experimenting with different cheese varieties like gouda, blue cheese, or pepper jack for unique taste profiles.
• Make Gluten-Free by substituting panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for coating, ensuring crispy texture for those with dietary restrictions.
• Optimize Potato Consistency by using day-old mashed potatoes, which have less moisture and help potato balls maintain structural integrity during frying.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 340 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg