These Fried Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect balance of crispy and creamy. The outer layer is golden brown and crunchy, while the inside stays soft, fluffy, and rich with cheesy goodness. The perfect finger food for any party, game night, or just a cozy snack at home.
The versatility of this dish is endless! Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces—think sour cream, ranch, or even marinara. You can even experiment with different cheeses or herbs to create your own unique version. Whether you’re making these for a crowd or just for yourself, these mashed potato balls are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 egg, beaten
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Roll the mashed potato mixture into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
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Dip each ball first into the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C), carefully lower the potato balls into the hot oil, a few at a time.
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Fry the potato balls for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Brief History of Mashed Potatoes and Their Transformation into Fried Potato Balls
Mashed potatoes have long been a staple in many cuisines around the world. This humble dish is made by mashing boiled potatoes, often with butter, milk, salt, and pepper, to create a soft, smooth texture. The history of mashed potatoes dates back to the 18th century, but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that they became widely popular in the United States and Europe.
While mashed potatoes are delicious on their own, the idea of frying them was born out of a need to elevate this already beloved dish. Fried mashed potato balls are a modern twist on mashed potatoes, and they first appeared as part of comfort food culture. By breading and frying mashed potatoes, cooks could create a new, exciting way to enjoy this traditional side dish. The concept quickly gained popularity for its rich flavor and satisfying crunch.
The Appeal of Fried Mashed Potato Balls
What makes fried mashed potato balls so appealing? The magic lies in the contrast of textures. The outside of the potato ball is crispy and golden brown, providing the perfect crunch, while the inside remains soft, creamy, and flavorful. This combination makes for a truly satisfying bite that pleases the taste buds with each mouthful.
Another reason for the dish’s popularity is its versatility. Fried mashed potato balls can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and they pair well with a wide variety of sauces and dips. From tangy ketchup and creamy ranch dressing to savory marinara and spicy sriracha, the dipping options are endless. You can even customize the filling, adding ingredients such as cheese, bacon, or herbs to suit your preferences.
Variations of Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Fried mashed potato balls are incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Some of the most popular variations include:
1. Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls
One of the most common variations is the addition of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan can be melted inside the mashed potato balls, giving them a gooey, cheesy center. This is a great option for cheese lovers who enjoy a rich, indulgent snack.
2. Bacon Mashed Potato Balls
For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, adding crumbled bacon to the mashed potatoes is a great option. The crispy bacon bits add texture and a savory kick to the fried balls, making them even more delicious.
3. Herb-Infused Mashed Potato Balls
Herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme can be mixed into the mashed potatoes for a fresh, aromatic twist. These herb-infused mashed potato balls are perfect for those who want to add a touch of freshness to the dish.
4. Vegan Mashed Potato Balls
For a plant-based version of this dish, simply omit the egg and dairy in the recipe. You can use a flax egg or other egg replacer, and opt for dairy-free butter or margarine. These vegan mashed potato balls are just as crispy and flavorful as the original, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Spicy Mashed Potato Balls
If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños to the mashed potato mixture can elevate the flavor profile of these fried balls. A spicy dip, like a sriracha mayo, can also complement the heat and add an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Fried mashed potato balls are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving them. They can be enjoyed in a variety of settings and paired with a range of dishes. Here are some great serving ideas to consider:
1. Party Appetizers
These crispy bites are perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve them on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces to cater to all tastes. The small size makes them ideal for guests to pop into their mouths, and the combination of flavors will keep them coming back for more.
2. As a Side Dish
Fried mashed potato balls can be served as a side dish alongside any main course. Whether you’re serving fried chicken, steak, or a vegetable stir-fry, these golden potato balls will complement any meal. They’re especially great as a side for a hearty comfort meal.
3. With a Salad
Pairing fried mashed potato balls with a fresh salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the dish. The freshness of the salad will cut through the crispy and creamy texture of the mashed potato balls, creating a harmonious combination. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly.
4. In a Sandwich or Wrap
For a unique twist, try placing fried mashed potato balls inside a sandwich or wrap. They can serve as a delicious filling, paired with greens, sauces, and your favorite condiments. A mashed potato ball wrap with a tangy sauce and fresh veggies is a satisfying and portable meal option.
Tips for Making Perfect Fried Mashed Potato Balls
To achieve the perfect fried mashed potato balls, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
1. Use Cold Mashed Potatoes
Cold mashed potatoes are easier to work with when forming the balls. If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they are thoroughly chilled before you start rolling them. This will help the balls hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart during frying.
2. Don’t Skip the Breading Process
The breading is what gives fried mashed potato balls their crispy texture. Be sure to coat them thoroughly in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior. You can even double coat the balls for an extra crispy crust.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When frying the potato balls, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and achieve the perfect crispiness. Overcrowding the pan can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy balls.
4. Experiment with Fillings
As mentioned earlier, fried mashed potato balls can be customized with various fillings like cheese, bacon, or herbs. Get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination.
Conclusion
Fried mashed potato balls are an excellent way to transform a classic comfort food into something exciting and delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a side dish, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these crispy potato balls are sure to satisfy your cravings. Their versatility allows for endless variations and flavor combinations, making them a dish that can be tailored to suit any taste. By following a few simple tips, you can easily create a batch of golden, crispy, and creamy fried mashed potato balls that will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.