When my friends and I gathered for a cozy movie night recently, I found myself rummaging through the fridge, seeking inspiration. That’s when I spotted some leftover mashed potatoes staring back at me, and an idea struck—why not transform them into something deliciously crunchy and satisfying? Enter my Crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls!
These little nuggets of joy combine a golden-brown, crispy exterior with a warm, fluffy interior. With the delightful bite of melted cheese and a hint of green onion, each one bursts with flavor and comfort. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a quick snack, these Fried Mashed Potato Balls are endlessly versatile. You can customize them with a variety of fillings, from spicy jalapeños to smoky bacon, or even create a vegan-friendly version.
Best of all, they’re wonderfully easy to whip up, ensuring you’ll impress your guests without breaking a sweat. So, roll up your sleeves and join me on this tasty adventure!
Why Love Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Crispy, Creamy Perfection: These Fried Mashed Potato Balls deliver a sensational crunch outside, while the inside boasts creamy mashed potatoes.
Versatile Delight: Customize them with your favorite fillings, from cheese to bacon or even vegan options.
Easy to Make: A straightforward recipe means everyone can join in and create their own delicious version.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for parties, they’re guaranteed to win over guests, whether served with spicy dipping sauces or classic sour cream.
Leftover Magic: Transforming mashed potato leftovers into a fun treat means no waste and maximum flavor! Consider trying them with a twist of your own after enjoying these variations.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Ingredients
For the Base
• Mashed Potatoes – Use leftovers for ease or freshly made for a creamy texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy flavor; mozzarella works great for more gooeyness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty flavor; aged pecorino is a good substitute.
• Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh touch; leeks or shallots can be used instead.
For the Coating
• Breadcrumbs – Essential for that crispy coating; panko gives extra crunch.
• Egg (beaten) – Binds everything together; a flax egg is a great vegan alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Needed for breading; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
Seasoning
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic can be swapped in, just reduce the quantity.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential to taste; adjust based on your personal preference.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Canola or peanut oil works best for frying to achieve the perfect crispiness.
Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings, transforming these Fried Mashed Potato Balls into your personal culinary masterpiece!
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add your mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Shape the Balls: Scoop a generous amount of the mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This will help create that delightful crispy exterior.
- Prepare for Breading: First, dip each ball in flour, then coat it in the beaten egg, and finally roll it in breadcrumbs to create a lovely golden crust.
- Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is hot enough for that perfect crunch!
- Fry the Balls: Carefully place the balls in the hot oil, frying in small batches for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Serve these delicious fried mashed potato balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Fridge: Store leftover fried mashed potato balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves their flavor and keeps them fresh for your next craving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried mashed potato balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This method revives their crunchiness, ensuring your fried mashed potato balls stay deliciously crispy!
Alternate Serving: Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces, as a side for main dishes, or even in a sandwich for a fun twist on leftovers!
What to Serve with Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Elevate your meal by pairing these crunchy treasures with vibrant flavors and refreshing sides.
- Creamy Ranch Dip: The rich, herby flavor of ranch amplifies the savory notes in the potato balls, creating a delightful dip that will keep you coming back for more.
- Zesty Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that balances the richness of the fried balls with a tangy punch, perfect for those who enjoy a savory contrast.
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens add a crisp and light element, making for an easy way to enjoy a balanced meal while complementing the richness of the potato balls.
- Spicy Sriracha Sauce: If you love a kick, this spicy sauce doubles as an exciting dipping choice and ramps up the flavor profile of your dish.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint, balancing the golden crunch of each potato ball.
- Sweet Potato Fries: For an extra layer of comfort, serve with crispy sweet potato fries; their subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty, cheesy notes.
- Beer or Wine: Pair with a light lager or a crisp white wine to contrast the hearty flavors, creating a perfect setting for sharing and enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Mashed Potato Balls are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the mashed potatoes, cheeses, green onions, and seasonings, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Once you’re ready to serve, simply scoop and roll the mixture into balls, coat them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, and fry them for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. To maintain quality, it’s crucial to keep the mixture tightly sealed to prevent drying out and ensure freshness. Enjoy the convenience of having these tasty bites ready at a moment’s notice, bringing you one step closer to a delightful snack or appetizer!
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Variations
Whether you’re craving something savory, spicy, or herbaceous, these variations offer delightful twists on the classic recipe!
- Cheese-Stuffed: Melt string cheese or your favorite cheese in the center for a gooey surprise. Each bite will make you smile with cheesy joy!
- Bacon: Add crumbled crispy bacon into the mixture for an irresistible savory flavor. The smoky touch of bacon takes these potato balls to a whole new level!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to brighten up the flavor. This elevates your fried mashed potato balls with delightful freshness in every bite!
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free cheese. Enjoy every crunchy bite guilt-free, while still indulging in classic comfort!
- Spicy: Toss in some cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce for a kick. Pair them with a spicy dipping sauce, and you’ll have the perfect treat for heat lovers!
- Sweet Potato Twist: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. This variation brings a touch of sweetness, creating a comforting contrast to the crispy coating.
- Italian Style: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair. Serve with marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost!
- Loaded Baked Potato: Mix in sour cream, cheddar, and green onions to replicate the flavors of a loaded baked potato. These will blow your taste buds away!
Tips for the Best Fried Mashed Potato Balls
- Cold Potatoes: Using cold mashed potatoes makes shaping easier and helps keep the balls intact while frying to ensure delicious fried mashed potato balls.
- Breadcrumb Importance: Don’t skimp on the breadcrumb coating; it’s essential for achieving that irresistible crispy exterior. Double-dipping will enhance crunchiness.
- Small Batches: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This practice prevents sogginess and ensures even cooking for each fried mashed potato ball.
- Mix Up Fillings: Get creative with fillings like cheese or bacon for added flavor, but avoid overfilling them to prevent breaking during frying.
- Rest After Frying: Allow the fried balls to drain on paper towels before serving. This step helps maintain their crispy texture by removing excess oil.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal results, use cold mashed potatoes as they are easier to handle and shape into balls. If you’re using freshly made mashed potatoes, allow them to cool down before mixing in the other ingredients. This will help your fried mashed potato balls hold their shape during frying.
How do I store leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them nice and fresh for your next snack. Make sure to place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and keep them crispy!
Can I freeze Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Very much! For freezing, lay the fried mashed potato balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to restore their crunch.
What should I do if the balls fall apart while frying?
If your fried mashed potato balls are falling apart, it might be due to the mixture being too wet or not enough binding agent like egg. To troubleshoot, ensure your mashed potatoes are properly cooled before mixing and try adding a bit more breadcrumbs or flour to the mixture to firm them up. If you prefer a vegan option, ensure your flax egg is well-prepared.
Are Fried Mashed Potato Balls suitable for vegans?
Yes! To make these fried mashed potato balls vegan, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens). Additionally, use dairy-free cheese and breadcrumbs to accommodate a plant-based diet, and enjoy all the flavor without any compromise!
Can I customize the fillings for the Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
The more the merrier! You can definitely customize these fried mashed potato balls. Try adding in cooked crumbled bacon, sautéed garlic, or chopped fresh herbs like chives and parsley for different flavor variations. Just be careful not to overfill them to prevent breaking during frying.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls: Crunchy Comfort Food Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add your mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
- Scoop a generous amount of the mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- First, dip each ball in flour, then coat it in the beaten egg, and finally roll it in breadcrumbs.
- In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the balls in the hot oil, frying in small batches for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.