Fried Mashed Potato Balls (Printable version)
Golden, breaded mashed potato bites with cheddar and green onion; chilled, fried until crisp and served hot for sharing.
# What you need:
→ Mashed Potato Mixture
01 - 3 cups cold mashed potatoes
02 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
03 - 2 green onions, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 large egg
→ Coating
08 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 large eggs, beaten
10 - 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
→ For Frying
11 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
# How To:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and one egg. Mix until the mixture is completely uniform.
02 - Using heaping tablespoons, portion out the mixture and roll each piece into a ball approximately 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Arrange the formed balls on a tray.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs.
04 - Coat each potato ball by rolling first in flour, then dipping in beaten eggs, and finally coating thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
05 - Transfer the breaded balls to a tray and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to ensure they remain firm during frying.
06 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to a suitable depth and heat to 350°F (175°C).
07 - Fry the balls in batches, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes per batch.
08 - Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your preferred dip.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The golden crust hides a cheesily soft center that will make you forget these started as leftovers.
- They're unbelievably portable—I've watched these disappear straight from the tray before they ever hit a serving plate.
02 -
- If you rush the chilling step, the balls may split and fall apart in the oil.
- Switching from regular to panko breadcrumbs makes an unexpectedly huge difference in crunch.
03 -
- Chilling is non-negotiable for perfect structure and results.
- Add a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mix for an irresistible smoky note—people will beg for your secret.