These golden, crispy Cheesy Potato Balls are a perfect appetizer or side dish. They’re soft and cheesy on the inside, with a satisfying crunch on the outside. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or a blend of your favorites)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
- Vegetable Oil, for frying (enough to submerge the balls halfway)
Instructions:
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until everything is combined. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Shape the Balls: Once the potato mixture is cool enough to handle, use your hands to form small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
- Prepare for Frying: In a shallow dish, place the beaten egg. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Balls: Dip each potato ball first into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then, roll the ball in the breadcrumbs until it’s completely covered.
- Fry the Balls: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of bread dropped into it sizzles immediately. Carefully place the potato balls in the hot oil, in batches, so they aren’t overcrowded.
- Cook until Golden: Fry the potato balls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy all over. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the Cheesy Potato Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ketchup, ranch, aioli).
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the potato mixture.
- Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- If you prefer baking over frying, you can bake the potato balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, after coating them in breadcrumbs. Spray them with cooking spray before baking.
- For a healthier option, you can also air fry the potato balls.
Enjoy!