There’s something utterly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a crispy Fried Mashed Potato Ball—crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside! After a long week of fast food and takeout, I craved a homemade treat that could elevate my snack game. This delightful recipe transformed leftover mashed potatoes into golden-brown bites of joy, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
The flexibility of these little flavor bombs makes them a true crowd-pleaser, with endless variations ranging from cheese-stuffed decadence to zesty herb-infusions or even spicy kicks. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or an uproarious game night, these Fried Mashed Potato Balls will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab that bowl of leftover mashed potatoes, and let’s get cooking!
Why Are Fried Mashed Potato Balls So Popular?
Crispy Texture: The contrast of a perfectly crunchy exterior with a creamy center delivers pure satisfaction in every bite.
Versatile Variations: Easily customizable, you can mix in cheese, bacon, or fresh herbs to suit any taste preference.
Quick to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for a last-minute snack or party platter.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: They’re an instant hit at gatherings, providing a fun finger food option that appeals to both kids and adults.
Easy Storage: Leftovers can be chilled and reheated, making them a convenient snack choice for busy days.
Impress your friends with these Fried Mashed Potato Balls that transform a classic dish into an irresistible treat!
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Ingredients
Get ready to whip up these delicious snacks with this handy ingredient list!
For the Mashed Potato Mixture
• Mashed Potatoes – Use cold, day-old potatoes for the best consistency when making Fried Mashed Potato Balls.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich flavor and gooey texture; try mozzarella for a different taste.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Elevates umami depth; substitute with a similar hard cheese if needed.
• Chopped Green Onions – Provides freshness and mild flavor; scallions or chives can work as substitutes.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses the mixture with flavor; feel free to use fresh minced garlic, but it may alter moisture levels.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; remember to adjust to your taste!
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps during the breading process; gluten-free flour can easily substitute for a gluten-free option.
• Egg – Binds everything together for better structure; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
• Breadcrumbs – Provides that satisfying crunch; panko breadcrumbs will elevate the crispiness.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying and achieving that perfect crispiness; any neutral oil, like canola, will work well.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying these amazing Fried Mashed Potato Balls!
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls
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Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cold, day-old mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, grated parmesan, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Form the Balls: With clean hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll it into small balls, roughly 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.
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Coat the Balls: Prepare your coating by first dipping each ball in flour to create a base layer. Then, dip in beaten egg and finally coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coverage for that delightful crunch.
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Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
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Fry: Carefully place the balls into the hot oil a few at a time, frying for 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy—trust me, that’s the color we’re after!
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Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the balls and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces, and enjoy every bite!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Fried Mashed Potato Balls
- Chill Your Potatoes: Make sure the mashed potatoes are completely chilled before mixing. This prevents the balls from falling apart while frying.
- Double Coat: For extra crunch, double-coat the balls in breadcrumbs. First, coat with flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the oil when frying the balls. This keeps the oil temperature stable and ensures a perfect golden-brown finish.
- Vary the Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix in different ingredients like cheese or herbs to create unique Fried Mashed Potato Balls that suit your taste.
- Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C). Too hot can burn them, too cool will make them greasy.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Variations
Feel free to play around with these variations to suit your taste buds and elevate your snacking experience!
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Cheese Stuffed: Place a cube of melted cheese in the center for an unexpected, gooey surprise. The blend of crispy exterior and melted cheese is simply heavenly!
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Bacon Infusion: Stir in crumbled, cooked bacon right into the potato mixture for a savory punch. This meaty addition takes comfort food to the next level.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to introduce a burst of flavor. The fragrance alone will tantalize your senses as they cook!
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flax egg and use plant-based cheese to create a vegan version that everyone can enjoy. You won’t miss the dairy one bit!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist that’ll awaken the taste buds and delight spice lovers.
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute half the mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory ingredients.
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Italian Style: Incorporate Italian seasoning and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a pizza-inspired delight. Pair with marinara sauce for dipping!
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Stuffed Jalapeño: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños directly into the mixture, adding a flavorful spice while keeping the creamy goodness intact.
These variations not only enhance the goodness of your Fried Mashed Potato Balls but also allow you to express your culinary creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
These delightful treats create the perfect foundation for a cozy meal or an exciting appetizer spread.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: A velvety dip adds a rich, garlicky flavor that elevates the fried balls and complements their crispy texture wonderfully.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the fried potatoes, providing a refreshing contrast that’s both colorful and nutritious.
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Spicy Marinara Sauce: The tangy and spicy notes in marinara beautifully enhance the savory flavors of the mashed potato balls, making every bite even more exciting.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch dressing is an all-time classic accompaniment that adds a delightful creaminess alongside the crunchy balls.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: For those who crave a bit of heat, the sweet and spicy flavor of chili sauce pairs perfectly, adding a zesty kick to each bite.
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Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds brightness and crunch, perfectly balancing the warm, comforting texture of the fried mashed potato balls.
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Apple Sauce: A surprising but delightful partner! The sweetness of apple sauce contrasts beautifully with the savory potato balls, making it a fun choice for all ages.
These pairings ensure that your Fried Mashed Potato Balls are not just a snack but the star of a complete meal experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a fantastic prep-ahead option for busy cooks! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the cold mashed potatoes with cheeses, green onions, and seasonings, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, shape the mixture into balls, coat them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then fry them as directed. To maintain that wonderful crunch, avoid frying more than necessary at once, and keep the oil temperature steady. By preparing these tasty bites ahead of time, you’ll have a delightful snack ready to impress at a moment’s notice!
Storage Tips for Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Room Temperature: Enjoy leftovers within 2 hours if left out. They are best eaten fresh for optimal crunchiness.
Fridge: Store unused Fried Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen Fried Mashed Potato Balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe FAQs
How do I know when my potatoes are ripe for making mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth without any dark spots or blemishes. Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or all-purpose varieties such as Russets work best for mash because they yield a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid potatoes with any signs of sprouting or greening, as these can be bitter and unhealthy!
What is the best way to store leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
After cooling, store your leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Fried Mashed Potato Balls? How?
Very much! Freezing is a fantastic way to save these tasty treats for later. First, arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not touching each other, and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, where they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
What are some common issues when making Fried Mashed Potato Balls, and how can I troubleshoot them?
Definitely! If your balls are falling apart while frying, it could be due to warm mashed potatoes or not enough binding agents like egg. Always ensure your potatoes are cold and well-mixed with eggs and breadcrumbs. If you find the outside is browning too quickly but the inside remains cold, reduce the frying temperature or check that they’re not overcrowded in the pan.
Are Fried Mashed Potato Balls safe for people with certain dietary restrictions?
Very good question! For those who have allergies or dietary preferences, you can easily make a vegan version by using a flax egg instead of a traditional egg and swapping out dairy cheeses for plant-based options. Always double-check the labels on your breadcrumbs, as some may contain gluten or other allergens. For pet owners, these snacks are not suitable for dogs or cats, so it’s best to keep them safely away from your furry friends!
Fried Mashed Potato Balls: The Crispy Snack Everyone Loves
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cold, day-old mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, grated parmesan, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- With clean hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll it into small balls, roughly 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- Prepare your coating by dipping each ball in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- In a deep fryer or a heavy skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the balls into the hot oil a few at a time, frying for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, remove the balls and let them drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces.