Discover the ultimate way to enjoy potatoes with these crispy and cheesy baked potato balls. Packed with creamy mashed potatoes, savory seasonings, and a gooey cheese center, these potato balls are baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier yet indulgent treat. Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth.
- Add butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Shape the Potato Balls:
- Take a small portion of the mashed potato mixture and flatten it into your palm.
- Place a mozzarella cube in the center, then roll the potato mixture around it, forming a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Coat the Potato Balls:
- Roll each ball in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it with breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, you can double-coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step.
- Bake the Potato Balls:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange the coated potato balls on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- Spray or lightly brush the balls with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potato balls are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the baked potato balls cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dips like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.