Crispy Potato & Cheese Bombs with Garlic Butter

Crispy Potato & Cheese Bombs with Garlic Butter 🧀🥔💥

Golden, crispy potato shells stuffed with molten cheddar and Parmesan, then drizzled with garlic butter—pure indulgence in every bite!

Ingredients (Makes 12 bombs)

Potato Bombs:

2 large potatoes, peeled and diced (Russets or Yukon Golds work best)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for maximum flavor)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or chives for a milder taste)

Salt & pepper to taste

Garlic Butter Sauce:

4 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Frying/Baking:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch)
1 egg, beaten (for binding)

Oil for frying (or baking spray for lighter version)

Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes:

Boil diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (~10 mins). Drain well.
Mash potatoes while hot (don’t over-mash—leave some texture). Mix in cheddar, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly.

2. Shape the Bombs:

Roll potato mixture into 12 golf-ball-sized rounds.
Optional double-crunch layer:
- Dip each ball in beaten egg, then roll in panko breadcrumbs.
- Chill for 15 mins to firm up (prevents breaking during frying).

3. Cook:

Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry bombs in batches for 2–3 mins until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Bake: Place on a greased tray, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 mins, flipping halfway.

4. Garlic Butter Drizzle:

Melt butter in a pan. Add garlic and sauté for 1 min (don’t burn!). Stir in red pepper flakes.
Drizzle over bombs right before serving.

Pro Tips:

✔ Secret to crispiness: The panko layer + chilling before frying.
✔ Make ahead: Assemble unbaked bombs and refrigerate overnight.
✔ Air fryer option: Spray with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 mins, shaking halfway.

Serving Ideas:

Dip ‘em: In sour cream, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Upgrade: Add crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños to the potato mix.

Party hack: Stick a pretzel stick in each for easy handling!

Why These Are Addictive:

🔥 Crispy outside, gooey-cheesy inside—texture heaven!
🔥 Garlic butter takes it over the top (you’ll want to double the sauce).
🔥 Kid & crowd-friendly—great for game day or potlucks.

Try swapping cheeses: Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist! Want a spicier kick? Add hot sauce to the potato mix. 😋

Question: Would you fry or bake yours? (Or go wild with the air fryer?)