Homemade Potato Balls are the perfect blend of crispy, golden exteriors and soft, flavorful interiors. These delightful bites are a popular snack or appetizer that everyone loves, from kids to adults. Made with simple ingredients like mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, they are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite fillings. Whether you are hosting a party or just craving something delicious and homemade, these potato balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Fry them for a crunchy texture or bake them for a healthier twist—either way, you will end up with a mouthwatering treat that will disappear in no time.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are soft and fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them in a large bowl until smooth and lump-free.
- Add the mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Continue until all the mixture is used.
- Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another bowl, and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Place the prepared balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during frying.
- Heat the oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few potato balls at a time, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the balls for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
- Serve the potato balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo for an extra kick.
Tips for Perfect Potato Balls
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too wet; if needed, you can refrigerate them for a while before forming balls.
- Feel free to stuff the potato balls with small pieces of ham, bacon, jalapeños, or additional cheese for a delicious surprise in every bite.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the potato balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through until golden and crispy.
- Always test one ball first to make sure your oil temperature is right. If the ball browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow the inside to cook properly without burning the outside.