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Cheesy Potato Balls

Cheesy Potato Balls

Cheesy Potato Balls are crispy bite-sized snacks with a golden exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, made from fluffy mashed potatoes and melting cheese. Perfect as a party appetizer or a comforting snack, this simple recipe uses pantry staples and is easy for cooks of all skill levels to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish and flavor)
  • Finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes (for spicy variation)
  • Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary (for herb-infused variation)
  • Plant-based cheese and flax egg (for vegan option)
  • Small pieces of cooked bacon or seasoned mushrooms (for stuffed variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and mash with butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before handling.
  2. Assemble the potato balls: Take a small handful of mashed potatoes, flatten it on your palm, place a cube or spoonful of cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the potato mixture around it and roll into a smooth ball.
  3. Coat the balls: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each potato ball into the egg wash, then roll generously in bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coating.
  4. Fry to golden perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat (350-375°F). Fry the potato balls in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Serve immediately: Enjoy the Cheesy Potato Balls while warm to experience the melty cheese inside at its best.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier mashed potatoes and better texture.
  • Chill the mashed potato mixture before shaping balls to help them hold together.
  • Fully encase the cheese within the potato to prevent leakage during frying.
  • Double coat the potato balls with egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.
  • Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F to keep balls crispy without absorbing excess oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy potato balls, crispy potato snack, mashed potato appetizer, party snacks, fried potato balls