Introduction
Crispy cheesy mashed potato balls are a delightful appetizer that combines the comforting texture of mashed potatoes with a crunchy exterior. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether as a party snack or a side dish. The combination of creamy cheese and golden breadcrumbs creates a flavor explosion that is sure to please everyone.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Potatoes: 2 cups, boiled and mashed
– Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
– Cream cheese: ¼ cup
– Green onions: ¼ cup, chopped
– Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
– All-purpose flour: ½ cup
– Eggs: 2, beaten
– Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
– Oil: for frying
Prep Time
Preparation time for these mashed potato balls takes about 15 minutes. This includes boiling the potatoes, mashing, and mixing all the ingredients together to form a cohesive mixture.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for frying the potato balls is approximately 10-15 minutes. This brings the total time for making this recipe to about 30-35 minutes. This recipe yields around 15-20 crispy cheesy mashed potato balls, depending on the size you make them. Enjoy this delicious treat with your favorite dipping sauce!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into cubes and place them in a pot filled with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer until smooth. Avoid over-mashing to prevent them from becoming gummy.
Step 3: Add Ingredients
While the potatoes are still warm, stir in butter, cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese
Fold in shredded cheese of your choice into the mashed potatoes. Allow the mixture to cool in the fridge for about an hour to firm up.
Step 5: Shape the Balls
Once cooled, scoop out portions of the potato mixture and shape them into balls. Aim for golf ball-sized portions, ensuring they are tightly packed.
Step 6: Bread the Balls
Set up a breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third. Roll each potato ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Fry the Balls
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the potato balls in batches, frying until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the crispy cheesy mashed potato balls hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Storage
Leftover potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked potato balls before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding extra fry time.
Cheese Options
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack, to customize the flavor and meltiness of the balls.
Serving Suggestions
These potato balls make an excellent appetizer or snack and pair well with sauces like ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Cook techniques
Boiling Potatoes
Boiling potatoes is essential to achieve smooth and creamy mashed potatoes. Cut the potatoes into even chunks for uniform cooking, and boil until fork-tender.
Mashing Potatoes
Using a potato masher or ricer helps achieve the desired consistency. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture; the goal is to have fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes.
Cooling Mashed Potatoes
Allow the mashed potatoes to cool in the refrigerator before shaping them into balls. This helps them firm up, making it easier to form the perfect shape.
Breading Technique
For a crispy outer layer, follow the breading process. Coat each potato ball in flour, dip into beaten egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs to achieve a crunchy texture when fried.
Frying
Fry the potato balls in hot oil to ensure they cook evenly and obtain a golden-brown exterior. Keep an eye on the temperature, as it should be hot enough to fry without absorbing too much oil.
Serving
Serve the crispy cheesy mashed potato balls hot, garnished with herbs or cheese if desired. They make a delicious appetizer or side dish.
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, while starchy potatoes like Russets are recommended for mashing, you can experiment with other varieties for different textures and flavors.
How do I store leftover potato balls?
Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze potato balls?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potato balls before frying. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag.
What is the best oil for frying?
For frying, vegetable oil or canola oil works well due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
How can I add more flavor to the mashed potatoes?
You can enhance flavor by adding ingredients like garlic, herbs, or cheese directly into the mashed potatoes before shaping them into balls.
Conclusion
The crispy cheesy mashed potato balls are a delightful snack that combines the heartiness of mashed potatoes with the indulgence of melted cheese. These versatile bites are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer, party food, or a side dish. With their crispy exterior and gooey interior, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Loaded Potato Skins
Crispy potato skins topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions make for a perfect appetizer that pairs well with sour cream.
Mashed Potato Gratin
Layer creamy mashed potatoes with cheese and bake until golden brown for a comforting side dish that everyone will love.
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Combine mashed potatoes with cheese, cream, and spices for a deliciously baked casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Potato and Cheese Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with mashed potatoes and cheese, then cook until crispy for a fun and tasty take on traditional quesadillas.
Spicy Mashed Potato Bites
Add jalapeños to your mashed potato mixture to create a spicy twist on these crunchy snacks, perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Herbed Mashed Potato Fritters
Incorporate fresh herbs into your mashed potatoes, form them into patties, and fry until golden for a flavorful twist on the classic ball.