Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Fried Mashed Potato Balls! These crispy, golden-brown bites are a perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a potluck, or just craving something savory, this recipe will not disappoint.
What Are Fried Mashed Potato Balls?
Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a popular comfort food that takes leftover mashed potatoes and turns them into crispy, flavorful bites. These savory morsels are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until they reach the perfect golden-brown color. The result is a crunchy exterior with a creamy, flavorful interior that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Fried Mashed Potato Balls, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: If you don’t have leftovers, you can make fresh mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup grated cheese: Cheddar, Parmesan, or any cheese of your choice.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions: For added flavor and color.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To help bind the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg: To help the breadcrumbs stick.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: For coating the potato balls.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Oil for frying: Vegetable or canola oil works best.
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the potato mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, beat the egg. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each potato ball into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Potato Balls: Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Fried Mashed Potato Balls hot, with your favorite dipping sauce. They pair wonderfully with ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.
Tips for Perfect Fried Mashed Potato Balls
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and shape into balls.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many balls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy potato balls. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even cooked bacon bits to the potato mixture for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fried Mashed Potato Balls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a hearty snack, a side dish, or even as part of a larger meal. They are a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser, making them a great addition to any gathering or event.
Serving and Storage Tips for Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Serving Tips:
- Warm and Crispy: For the best taste and texture, serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls while they’re still warm and crispy. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party food.
- Pair with Dips: Enhance the flavor of your potato balls with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic options include ketchup, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce. For a more gourmet touch, try aioli, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
- Garnish for Presentation: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra grated cheese can also make them look and taste even more appetizing.
- Platter Arrangement: Arrange the potato balls on a serving platter with your choice of dips in small bowls for easy access. This setup is not only visually appealing but also practical for guests to help themselves.
- Keep Warm: If you’re serving these at a party, keep the potato balls warm by placing them in a slow cooker set on the “keep warm” setting or in a low oven (about 200°F or 93°C) until ready to serve.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Fried Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked potato balls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen balls to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat frozen potato balls, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For refrigerated leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or in an air fryer to restore their crispy texture.
- Avoid Microwaving: Reheating in the microwave is not recommended as it can make the potato balls soggy. An oven or air fryer is preferable for maintaining the crispy coating.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can also prepare the potato balls up to the frying stage and freeze them. When ready to cook, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and then fry them as directed.
By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Fried Mashed Potato Balls remain delicious and enjoyable, whether you’re serving them fresh or storing them for later use.
1. Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, you can use fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe. If you’re using fresh mashed potatoes, let them cool to room temperature before forming them into balls. Cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and shape.
2. Can I make Fried Mashed Potato Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the potato balls ahead of time. Prepare them up to the point of frying, then freeze them. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator and fry as directed. Alternatively, you can cook them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, then reheat them as needed.
3. What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute. These alternatives will provide a similar crispy coating for your potato balls.
4. Can I make these potato balls without frying?
Yes, you can bake the potato balls for a healthier alternative. Place the coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lightly spray them with cooking spray, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. They may not be as crispy as fried, but they will still be delicious.