Cheesy potato balls are a delicious and indulgent snack or appetizer! Here’s a simple recipe for making them:
Cheesy Potato Balls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- 1-2 eggs (for binding)
- Oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, peel and boil potatoes until tender. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Let them cool.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan (if using), green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form Balls: Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Prepare for Coating: Set up a station with one bowl of beaten eggs and another bowl with breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Balls: Dip each potato ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Balls: Carefully add the coated potato balls to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Drain: Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, with your favorite dipping sauce (like ranch, marinara, or sour cream).
Tips:
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the potato balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden.
- Additions: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or herbs for extra flavor.
These cheesy potato balls are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy!