Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful and indulgent dish that brings a touch of comfort and fun to any meal. This tasty recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into crispy, flavorful bites, perfect for a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
To create this delicious dish, simply combine leftover mashed potatoes with a hint of cheese, green onions, and a touch of seasoning. Shape into small balls, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry until golden and crispy. The result is a beautiful and savory treat that’s sure to be loved by everyone.
Ideal for parties or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and offers a unique flavor. Each bite contains the creamy and fluffy taste of mashed potatoes with a crispy, golden exterior, similar to traditional Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich or Pan Fried Broccolini. Savor the goodness of Fried Mashed Potato Balls and add a new favorite to your collection of indulgent recipes.
Overview: How To Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Allow the mashed potatoes to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Mix in the egg, cheese, onions, and bacon. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and coat them in breadcrumbs. Let the balls rest for 15 minutes to help the crumbs adhere.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour an inch of oil into an electric skillet and heat it to 375°F. If you don’t have an electric skillet, you can use a deep skillet or shallow Dutch oven with a thermometer to check the oil temperature.
Step 3: Fry the Potato Balls
Fry the potato balls in small batches until they are golden brown, about 2-1/2 to 3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm while frying the remaining balls, and serve immediately
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful treat that brings comfort food to a new level. First, their crispy golden exterior perfectly contrasts with the creamy, flavorful mashed potato filling, creating an irresistible texture in every bite. You’ll appreciate the versatility of this recipe, as it goes so well with other fried dishes like Kimchi Fried Rice.
Additionally, they’re easy to prepare, making them a fantastic option for parties or casual family dinners. Simply whip up a batch of mashed potatoes, form them into balls, and fry until golden. They can be made ahead of time and reheated, ensuring you can enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.
These little bites also make for a great appetizer or snack, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces like ranch, sour cream, or marinara. With their delicious flavor and satisfying crunch, Fried Mashed Potato Balls are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Equipment
- 1 Electric Skillet
Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- ½ cup dry bread crumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Place the mashed potatoes in a large bowl and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Mix in the egg, cheese, onions, and bacon.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Allow the balls to rest for 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 inch of oil in an electric skillet to 375°F.
- Fry the potato balls in batches until they are golden brown, about 2-1/2 to 3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Serve while warm.
Notes
- For easier shaping, refrigerate the potato mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming into balls. This helps the mixture firm up and makes it easier to handle.
- For extra flavor, mix some garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs into the breadcrumbs before coating the potato balls.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Helpful Tips For You
- Use Day-Old Mashed Potatoes: For the best texture, use leftover mashed potatoes that have cooled and thickened. Freshly made mashed potatoes may be too soft, making it difficult to form balls.
- Chill the Mixture: After mixing in any additional ingredients (like cheese or herbs), refrigerate the potato mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
- Coating Options: For an extra crispy exterior, consider double-coating the potato balls. First, dip them in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs before frying.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the potato balls. This helps them cook quickly and evenly, resulting in a crispy outside without absorbing too much oil.
What to Serve With Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
- Italian Tomato Salad With Mozzarella
- Peach Whiskey Cocktail
- Iced Tea Lemonade
- Cast Iron Meatloaf
- Chicken Bacon Ranch
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe! In fact, day-old mashed potatoes work best, as they are firmer and easier to shape into balls.
How do I store leftover potato balls?
Store any leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in the oven or reheat them in an air fryer for extra crispiness.
What can I add to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor?
You can mix in various ingredients to enhance the flavor, such as shredded cheese, cooked bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, or herbs like parsley and chives.
Can I bake the potato balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the potato balls for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the balls on a baking sheet, and lightly spray them with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Can I freeze the potato balls before frying?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.