Crispy Potato Cheese Balls: A Cheesy, Crunchy Snack

Crispy Potato Cheese Balls are a delicious and addictive snack that combines creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. Perfect for parties, game day, or a fun family treat, these bite-sized delights are easy to make and sure to impress. Below is a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to help you create the perfect Crispy Potato Cheese Balls.

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture:

2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Coating:

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Oil for frying (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)

For Serving (Optional):

Marinara sauce
Ranch dressing
Sour cream

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix until well combined.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the potato balls for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station

Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls.

Step 3: Coat the Potato Balls

Roll each potato ball in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Roll the egg-coated ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all potato balls.

Step 4: Fry the Potato Balls

Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 2 inches deep.
Fry the potato balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy potato cheese balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or sour cream.

Variations

Baked Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated potato balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Herb Twist: Add chopped chives, dill, or thyme to the potato mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Notes

For a smoother texture, ensure the mashed potatoes are free of lumps.
If the potato mixture is too sticky, refrigerate it for an additional 15-20 minutes before shaping.
Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for even frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer or snack at parties or gatherings.
Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
Perfect for game day or movie night.

Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
To freeze, place the uncooked coated potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Prep Time:

20 minutes (plus chilling time)

Cooking Time:

10-15 minutes

Total Time:

About 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per ball, makes 20 balls):

Calories: 80
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g

FAQs

Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use panko, crushed crackers, or cornflake crumbs as a substitute.
Can I air fry these potato balls?
Yes, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?
Ensure the potato balls are well-coated and sealed before frying. Refrigerating them before frying also helps.

Conclusion

Crispy Potato Cheese Balls are a cheesy, crunchy, and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy interior and crispy exterior, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!