There’s something magical about the aroma of fried food wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? Cheesy Potato Balls are not just a snack; they’re a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just need a quick solution for a busy day, these little bites of joy are perfect. They’re easy to whip up and even easier to devour. Plus, who can resist that gooey cheese melting in every bite? Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Balls
These Cheesy Potato Balls are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The crispy exterior gives way to a creamy, cheesy center that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, once you serve these, you’ll be the hero of the kitchen!
Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Balls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cheesy Potato Balls. Here’s what you’ll need:
Mashed Potatoes: The base of our dish. Use about two large potatoes, cooked and mashed until smooth.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This adds that melty, gooey goodness. Feel free to experiment with different cheese types!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this brings a nutty flavor that complements the cheddar perfectly.
Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh, zesty kick. You can substitute with chives if you prefer.
Garlic Powder: A must for flavor! It gives a subtle depth without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, it enhances the overall taste with a hint of sweetness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together. Adjust to your taste.
Breadcrumbs: These create that satisfying crunch on the outside. Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crispiness.
Eggs: Used for binding the mixture and helping the breadcrumbs stick. You can use flax eggs for a vegan option.
Vegetable Oil: For frying. Canola or peanut oil are good alternatives if you want a different flavor.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist. Exact measurements are at the bottom of the article for your convenience!
How to Make Cheesy Potato Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine your creamy mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss in the chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. The goal is to create a cohesive mixture that’s packed with flavor. Don’t be shy—use your hands to really get in there! This is where the magic begins, and the aroma will already start to tempt your taste buds.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Now comes the fun part! Take a handful of the potato mixture and shape it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You want them to be bite-sized, perfect for snacking. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will keep them from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers. It’s a messy job, but someone’s got to do it!
Step 3: Coat the Balls
In a shallow dish, beat the eggs until they’re frothy. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to your potato balls. In another shallow dish, pour in the breadcrumbs. Now, take each potato ball, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for that crispy exterior we all love. Place the coated balls back on the baking sheet, ready for frying!
Step 4: Fry the Balls
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. You want the oil to reach around 350°F for the perfect fry. Carefully add a few potato balls to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and crispy. The sound of sizzling will make your mouth water! Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil, letting any excess oil drain off. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to keep them crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once your Cheesy Potato Balls are golden and crispy, it’s time to serve! Remove them from the oil and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether it’s ranch, marinara, or something spicy, these little bites are sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth for easy mixing.
Keep your hands damp while forming the balls to prevent sticking.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
Let the oil heat properly before adding the balls for that perfect golden crust.
Experiment with different cheeses and spices to customize flavors!
Equipment Needed
Large Bowl: For mixing the potato mixture. A mixing bowl works just as well.
Baking Sheet: To place the formed balls. A plate can be a temporary substitute.
Shallow Dishes: For eggs and breadcrumbs. Any flat dish will do.
Deep Skillet or Pot: For frying. A Dutch oven is a great alternative.
Slotted Spoon: To remove the balls from oil. A regular spoon can work in a pinch.
Variations
Spicy Cheesy Potato Balls: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a fiery kick.
Herbed Potato Balls: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for a burst of freshness.
Loaded Potato Balls: Incorporate crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier snack that’s packed with flavor.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and flax eggs to create a delicious vegan version of these cheesy delights.
Sweet Potato Variation: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the Cheesy Potato Balls.
For a fun presentation, stack them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Complement with a cold beer or a refreshing soda for the perfect game day treat.
FAQs about Cheesy Potato Balls
Can I make Cheesy Potato Balls ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture and form the balls in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes them a great option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
What dipping sauces go well with Cheesy Potato Balls? These cheesy delights pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic choices include ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli. Feel free to get creative and try your favorite sauces!
Can I bake Cheesy Potato Balls instead of frying? Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown.
How do I store leftover Cheesy Potato Balls? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Cheesy Potato Balls? Definitely! Freeze the uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Creating Cheesy Potato Balls is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your kitchen and your table. The crispy exterior and gooey cheese center make every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re sharing them with friends during a game or enjoying them as a late-night snack, these little bites are sure to spark smiles. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your taste. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a cherished favorite!
Cheesy Potato Balls are a delightful snack made from mashed potatoes and cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups mashed potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, form the potato mixture into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
Dip each potato ball into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Return to the baking sheet.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
Carefully add a few potato balls to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.
Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
