Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a perfect comfort food snack that blends the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the gooey goodness of melted cheese. These little bites of heaven are crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer, side dish, or snack.

The recipe is simple yet versatile. You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make them from scratch, customize the cheese filling, and even adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a delicious party snack or a tasty way to use up extra mashed potatoes, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls will impress everyone who tries them.

This detailed guide will walk you through the entire process of making these delightful potato balls, with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to enhance your cooking experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers fantastic results every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure they are smooth and creamy. If you’re making them from scratch, peel and chop about 2 pounds of potatoes (Russets or Yukon Golds). Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or a hand mixer, adding butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese). If you want extra creaminess, mix in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other seasonings you prefer. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Scoop out about 1–2 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Create a small indentation in the center of each ball and stuff it with a small cube or teaspoon of cheese. Seal the ball around the cheese so it’s completely covered.

Step 4: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add some all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk 1–2 eggs to create an egg wash. In the third dish, place panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs.

Roll each potato ball in the flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Ensure that each ball is well-coated on all sides for a crispy crust.

Step 5: Fry the Potato Balls

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by dropping in a breadcrumb, which should sizzle), carefully add the potato balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry the balls for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the balls from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the cheesy mashed potato balls immediately while they’re still hot and the cheese inside is gooey. You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or hot sauce.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Chill the Mixture: If your mashed potato mixture is too soft to form into balls, chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and prevents the balls from falling apart during frying.

• Use a Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures that your potato balls are all uniform in size, which helps them cook evenly.

• Don’t Skip the Double Coat: For an extra crispy texture, coat the potato balls in breadcrumbs twice. After the first coating, let them sit for a few minutes before applying a second coat of egg and breadcrumbs.

• Ensure the Oil is Hot Enough: If the oil is too cool, the potato balls may absorb too much oil and become greasy. Test the temperature by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mashed potatoes for a subtle heat.

Creative Variations

While the basic Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to personalize and elevate this dish:

1. Bacon and Cheddar Mashed Potato Balls

Add crumbled cooked bacon to the mashed potatoes for a smoky, savory flavor. The combination of bacon and cheddar is a crowd favorite!

2. Jalapeño Cheddar Mashed Potato Balls

For a spicy kick, mix in some finely chopped jalapeños along with the cheese. This variation adds both heat and flavor.

3. Garlic and Herb Mashed Potato Balls

Add roasted garlic, fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or chives), and Parmesan cheese to the mixture for a more sophisticated flavor profile.

4. Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

For an even heartier bite, add sautéed onions, green onions, and sour cream to the mashed potatoes. This takes them to the next level!

Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides or sauces. Here are a few ideas:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dips, such as sour cream, ranch dressing, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

• Salads: Pair with a crisp, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the potato balls.

• Main Courses: These balls work as an excellent side dish to any roasted or grilled meats like chicken, pork, or beef.

How to Make It Ahead of Time

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are great for meal prep. You can assemble the balls, freeze them, and cook them later. Here’s how:

• Assemble and Freeze: After forming the balls and breading them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for storage.

• Fry from Frozen: When you’re ready to cook, you can fry them straight from the freezer. Just be sure to cook them for a few extra minutes until golden and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the Balls: Don’t overfill the mashed potato balls with cheese, as it may cause them to leak during frying.

• Using Watery Mashed Potatoes: Ensure your mashed potatoes are not too runny, or the balls will fall apart. Let the potatoes cool down a little before mixing in cheese and seasonings.

• Skipping the Chill Step: If your mixture is too soft, chilling it before forming the balls helps to firm it up, making the whole process easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them in advance and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just fry or bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How do I keep the balls from falling apart?
Make sure your mashed potatoes aren’t too watery, and try chilling the mixture before forming the balls. Additionally, ensure you coat them well in breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior, these bite-sized delights will be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re making them for a party appetizer, a comforting side dish, or a fun snack, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

Experiment with different cheese and seasoning combinations to create your perfect version of this cheesy treat. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create perfectly crispy and gooey Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls every time.