If you’re searching for a snack that perfectly blends comfort and crunch, this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine savory mashed potatoes packed with melted cheddar, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives, then coated in a golden panko crust and fried to perfection. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making these potato balls an irresistible treat whether for a party, an appetizer, or a cozy meal at home. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it quickly becomes a beloved classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe comes from a handful of simple, well-chosen ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and fantastic texture. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the creamy mashed potatoes acting as the base, the smoky bacon adding a savory punch, or the crispy panko crumbs providing that perfect crunch.
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes: Using leftovers not only saves time but gives the perfect creamy base that’s ready to be transformed.
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds delicious smoky, salty bursts throughout the mixture.
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melt into the potatoes for gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives: Fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the richness.
- 1 tsp. garlic powder: Infuses a subtle yet flavorful depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Kosher salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and sharpness.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Helps the breading stick and creates a golden outer shell when fried.
- 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs: For a light, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: The key to frying these balls to a perfect golden crunch.
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
This is where all the delicious flavor comes together. In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes with the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure that every bite sings. Stir everything really well so the ingredients are evenly distributed, forming a savory, cheesy, and fragrant mash ready to shape.
Step 2: Form and Bread the Potato Balls
Now the fun begins! Place your beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in another. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, take about 1 to 2 inch portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them gently into balls. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated, then roll it around in the panko breadcrumbs until completely covered. This double coating guarantees a beautiful crunchy crust once fried, so don’t rush the breading process.
Step 3: Cook the Potato Balls by Frying
If you’re frying on the stove, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet to 375°F (a candy thermometer helps with accuracy). Fry the potato balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, until they turn golden brown on all sides—usually about 2 to 3 minutes. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. Don’t forget to season immediately with a little salt while they’re hot to enhance the flavor right at the end.
Step 4: Cook the Potato Balls by Air Frying
For a lighter version, use an air fryer preheated to 375°F. Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer inside the basket—too many at once will prevent crisping, so work in batches if necessary. Air fry for about 10 minutes or until the panko exterior is perfectly golden and crispy. As with frying, sprinkle them with salt as soon as they come out of the air fryer to maximize that savory pop.
How to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These potato balls are already packed with flavor, but a few garnishes can elevate them to a whole new level. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra chives for a bright, fresh touch. A light drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of your favorite spicy aioli adds creaminess and a tang that complements the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe alongside fresh, crisp greens like an arugula salad to balance the richness. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a zesty coleslaw that adds texture and brightness. For added indulgence, accompany them with a dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping heaven.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, thread these potato balls onto skewers for easy eating and an eye-catching presentation. You can also serve them inside lettuce cups topped with a little sour cream and chive, turning them into bite-sized appetizers. Or go all out with a loaded mashed potato bowl, topping your fried balls with bacon bits, cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of gravy for an irresistible comfort feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover fried mashed potato balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their texture intact, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture and keep the crust from getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the formed but uncooked potato balls by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid, then transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can fry them later straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fried mashed potato balls in a hot oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make them soggy. Preheat your oven to 375°F and heat for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure your mashed potatoes are chilled and firm before shaping and frying to help them hold together better and avoid sogginess.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp flavor and meltability, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Can I bake the potato balls instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option for a healthier twist. Place the breaded balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes for a similar crunchy coating, though panko tends to deliver the best light crispiness.
How do I make these vegan-friendly?
You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms, use a plant-based shredded cheese, and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or aquafaba binder to keep the coating intact and still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves a tasty, crunchy snack with a warm, cheesy center. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether you want a comforting bite for yourself or a shareable treat at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and get ready to fall in love with these golden, crispy, savory bites that bring leftover mashed potatoes into the spotlight in the best way possible.
Print
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy and cheesy snack made from leftover mashed potatoes, mixed with bacon, cheddar cheese, chives, and garlic powder, then coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried or air fried to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they offer a delicious way to transform simple leftovers into an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Breading and Frying
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3 inches in skillet)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Form and Bread the Potato Balls: Place the beaten eggs and panko bread crumbs into separate shallow bowls. Scoop out portions of the potato mixture (about 1 to 2 inches) using a cookie scoop or your hands, and roll into balls. First dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat this process until all mixture is shaped and breaded.
- Cook the Potato Balls by Frying: Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet on the stovetop to 375°F, using a candy thermometer. Fry the potato balls in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch until golden brown on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately season with additional salt.
- Cook the Potato Balls by Air Frying: Alternatively, preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the breaded potato balls in a single layer in the basket, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry for approximately 10 minutes or until the panko coating is golden and crispy. Season with salt immediately after cooking before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) for crisp frying and to avoid soggy results.
- Leftover mashed potatoes work best if they are thick and not too runny to maintain shape.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste before shaping into balls.
- For a healthier option, air frying is recommended, which reduces the amount of oil absorbed.
- The potato balls can be kept warm in an oven set at 200°F if cooking in batches.
