If you are searching for a comforting, crispy, and utterly delicious snack, this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is an absolute winner. It takes leftover mashed potatoes to a whole new level by combining creamy, cheesy centers with a perfectly crunchy golden breaded exterior. Each bite offers a warm, satisfying burst of flavors enhanced by smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives, making these potato balls a crowd-pleaser anytime of day. Whether you fry them on the stovetop or air fry for a lighter touch, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat that feels both indulgent and homey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step to making this irresistible snack. These simple items each play a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, taste, and bite-sized appeal that make this Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe so memorable.
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes: The creamy base that makes these balls comforting and smooth inside.
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky crunch and depth of flavor.
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts indulgently for cheesy richness.
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives: Brings a fresh, mild oniony kick and color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory warmth to balance the flavors.
- Kosher salt: Necessary for seasoning and enhancing all other ingredients.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a little bite and brightness.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as the perfect binder and coating adhesive.
- 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs: Creates the crispy, golden crust everyone loves.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Ensures an even, crunchy exterior when frying on the stovetop.
How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Mashed Potato Filling
In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes with crumbled cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh chives, and garlic powder. Season this mixture generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir everything together well so all the flavors blend harmoniously. This step is key because the filling needs to be flavorful yet smooth enough to shape easily into balls.
Step 2: Shape and Coat the Potato Balls
Set up two shallow bowls—one with beaten eggs and the other with panko bread crumbs. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, scoop about 1 to 2 inch balls from the potato mixture. Roll each portion into a tight sphere in your palms, then dip first in the egg wash to help the coating stick. Next, roll the ball generously in panko crumbs to give it that vital crunchy coating. Repeat until all mashed potato mixture is formed and coated.
Step 3: Fry the Potato Balls on the Stovetop
Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Use a candy thermometer to make sure the oil reaches 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully fry the potato balls in batches, turning them so they brown evenly on all sides. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes per batch. Once golden and crisp, remove and drain on paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt immediately while still hot to enhance that irresistible flavor.
Step 4: Air Fryer Alternative for a Lighter Option
If you prefer a less oily version, the air fryer is your new best friend. Simply arrange the breaded potato balls in a single layer in your air fryer basket, working in batches if needed. Cook at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes, or until the panko crust is golden and crisp. Don’t forget to season with salt right after cooking—the freshness of seasoning makes a huge difference!
How to Serve Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe beautifully. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or additional chives on top for a bright, herbaceous touch. A light drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of tangy aioli on the side adds lovely creaminess that complements the crunch perfectly. For an extra pop of color, serve with a dusting of smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for contrast.
Side Dishes
These potato balls shine as a star appetizer or snack but also make great companions to plates like fresh salads, steamed green veggies, or even grilled meats. They pair wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or roasted asparagus, balancing the richness and adding texture contrast. For comfort food lovers, serve alongside warm tomato soup or chili for a hearty, cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Present your Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe on a wooden board with dipping sauces arranged in small bowls for a fun communal experience. Stack them pyramid-style for an eye-catching display or serve skewered on cocktail picks for easy finger food elegance at parties. These little orbs of joy are beautiful both casually plated and dressed up for special occasions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover fried mashed potato balls—which might be rare!—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure they’ve cooled completely to avoid sogginess. Reheat them properly to bring back their crisp texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked potato balls after shaping and coating them in egg and panko. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, fry or air fry straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
For leftovers, the best way to reheat fried potato balls is by popping them in a hot oven or air fryer at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy, losing that much-loved crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes or should I use leftovers?
Leftover mashed potatoes work best because they are already cooled and drier, helping the potato balls hold their shape better. Freshly made mashed potatoes can be used, but let them cool thoroughly and dry out a bit in the fridge first for the best results.
Is it necessary to add bacon, or can it be omitted?
Bacon adds wonderful smoky flavor and texture, but it’s totally optional. You can leave it out for a vegetarian version or swap it with ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for different flavor profiles.
What type of cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for gooey stretchiness, pepper jack for a little heat, or gouda for a richer, smoky flavor. Just pick a cheese that melts well to get that irresistible creamy center.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative. Place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with these?
These potato balls pair beautifully with many sauces—spicy sriracha mayo, classic ranch, garlic aioli, or even a tangy marinara. Choose your favorite or mix a few options to keep things fun and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to transforming simple leftovers into a mouthwatering treat. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers. I absolutely love how versatile and easy they are to make, and I’m confident once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorite go-to comfort foods too. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, have some fun creating this irresistible dish, and prepare for plenty of happy smiles at your table!
Print
Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a tasty appetizer or snack. Made with bacon, cheddar cheese, chives, and garlic powder, then coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried or air-fried to golden perfection, they’re perfect for parties or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Coating
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3 inches deep)
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes with cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Set up coating stations: Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the panko bread crumbs in another. This will make coating the potato balls quick and easy.
- Shape the potato balls: Use a small cookie scoop to portion out 1 to 2-inch balls of the mashed potato mixture. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls. Then dredge each ball first in the beaten egg and then roll it thoroughly in the panko bread crumbs. Repeat this process until all the mashed potato mixture is formed into coated balls.
- For stovetop frying: Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat until a candy thermometer registers 375°F (190°C). Carefully fry the potato balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, for about 2 to 3 minutes or until they are golden brown on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain the balls on paper towels, then season immediately with additional kosher salt.
- For air fryer method: Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until the panko coating is golden and crisp, shaking the basket or turning the balls halfway through cooking for even browning. Season immediately with salt before serving.
Notes
- Using leftover mashed potatoes helps reduce waste and saves preparation time.
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) before frying to ensure crispiness without greasiness.
- If air frying, do not overcrowd the basket to allow for even cooking and browning.
- These potato balls are best served warm and fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
- You can customize the filling by adding herbs, spices, or different cheeses according to your preference.
- Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately for the best frying results.
