Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden-brown potato ball with a soft, fluffy interior. These delectable bites, known as Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls, are the perfect blend of texture and flavor. Made from creamy mashed potatoes, infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, then breaded and fried to perfection, these potato balls are a delicious treat that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

In this detailed recipe, we’ll explore how to make these tasty potato balls from scratch, along with tips for achieving the perfect crispiness and flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a party, or just a cozy night in, these Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, creamy interior is simply delightful.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: These potato balls can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. They’re perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare the potato mixture in advance, making it convenient for entertaining.

Ingredients

To make Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Potato Mixture:

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps create a fluffy interior.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the potato mixture.
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and garlic.
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
• 1/4 cup of whole milk: Helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon of salt: Essential for seasoning the potatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complements the other flavors.

For the Coating:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour: Used for the first layer of coating to help the egg adhere.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the potato balls.
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a lighter, crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds extra flavor to the breadcrumb coating.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in the coating.
• 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme adds a herby note to the coating.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the breadcrumb mixture.

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil: For deep frying the potato balls. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the balls fully.

For Serving (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
• Marinara sauce or aioli: For dipping, providing a complementary flavor to the potato balls.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these mouthwatering Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes.
3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute or two to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Mixture

1. Add the butter and minced garlic to the hot potatoes. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter and slightly cook the garlic, releasing its flavor.
2. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until they are smooth and free of lumps. Avoid over-mashing to prevent the potatoes from becoming gummy.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.
4. Taste the potato mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The flavor should be rich, garlicky, and slightly salty.
5. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture makes it easier to shape the potato balls.

Step 3: Shape the Potato Balls

1. Once the potato mixture is chilled, use your hands to form it into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. You can use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture evenly.
2. Place the formed potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to make shaping easier.

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

1. Prepare the coating station by setting up three shallow bowls: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Roll each potato ball in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured potato ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
4. Roll the egg-coated potato ball in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere evenly. Repeat this process for all the potato balls.

Step 5: Fry the Potato Balls

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and turns golden within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Carefully lower the potato balls into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, greasy potato balls.
3. Fry the potato balls for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried potato balls from the oil, draining any excess oil, and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.
5. Repeat the frying process with the remaining potato balls, making sure the oil returns to the correct temperature between batches.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the crispy Parmesan garlic potato balls to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
3. Serve hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, aioli, or even ranch dressing.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

To ensure your potato balls turn out perfectly every time, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Use Russet Potatoes

• Russet potatoes are high in starch, making them ideal for mashed potatoes and for achieving a fluffy interior in the potato balls.

2. Don’t Overwork the Potatoes

• Over-mashing or over-mixing the potatoes can lead to a gummy texture. Mash just until smooth and well-combined with the other ingredients.

3. Chill the Potato Mixture

• Chilling the mashed potato mixture before shaping the balls is crucial. It firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and shape.

4. Double Coat for Extra Crunch

• For an even crispier exterior, you can double coat the potato balls by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before frying.

5. Monitor Oil Temperature

• Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked. If it’s too cool, the potato balls will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

6. Drain Properly

• After frying, let the potato balls drain on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas:

1. Appetizer Platter

• Serve the potato balls as part of an appetizer platter with other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, and stuffed mushrooms. Offer a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, and spicy ketchup.

2. Side Dish

• These potato balls make a delicious side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty salad. They add a fun and flavorful twist to any meal.

3. Party Snack

• Potato balls are a hit at parties! Serve them as a snack during game day or any casual gathering. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for guests to enjoy.

4. Brunch Addition

• Add these potato balls to your brunch menu. They pair wonderfully with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

5. Dipping Sauce Pairings

• Marinara Sauce: The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the potato balls.
• Garlic Aioli: Enhances the garlic flavor and adds creaminess.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic, creamy dip that complements the flavors of the potato balls.
• Spicy Ketchup: For those who like a little heat, spicy ketchup is a great option.

Health Considerations

While Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are undeniably delicious, they are fried and should be enjoyed in moderation. Here are some tips to make them a bit healthier:

1. Baking Instead of Frying

• If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the potato balls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

2. Air Fryer Method

• Another healthier alternative is to use an air fryer. Spray the potato balls lightly with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

3. Use Less Oil

• If frying, ensure you drain the potato balls thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess oil. You can also use a healthier oil like avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and is less likely to produce harmful compounds when heated.

4. Reduce Salt

• Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so you might want to reduce the amount of added salt in the potato mixture and coating if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Storing and Reheating

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls can be stored and reheated easily, making them a great option for make-ahead meals or leftovers.

Storing:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can also freeze the potato balls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the potato balls on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Microwave: While not ideal, you can reheat the potato balls in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. However, this method may result in a less crispy texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes with the satisfying crunch of a golden-brown coating. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these potato balls are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

The process of making them is straightforward, and with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. From their crispy exterior to their flavorful, creamy interior, these potato balls are a true treat for the senses.

So, gather your ingredients, heat up your oil, and get ready to enjoy one of the most irresistible potato dishes you’ll ever make. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Yield: 8

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Print

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden-brown potato ball with a soft, fluffy interior. These delectable bites, known as Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls, are the perfect blend of texture and flavor. Made from creamy mashed potatoes, infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, then breaded and fried to perfection, these potato balls are a delicious treat that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lb. Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes, quartered
• 7 tbsp. Cornflour or Cornstarch, or 10 tbsp. Flour
• 1/3 cup + 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp. Garlic Granules
• 1/2 tsp. Salt
• 1/2 tsp. Black Pepper
• 3 tbsp. Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
• Cooking Oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Cook the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain the potatoes and let steam dry in the basket for 5-8 minutes. 
2. Mash the potatoes into a large bowl. 
3. Add the cornstarch, 1/3 cup grated parmesan, garlic granules, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. 
4. Use your hands to shape into bite-sized balls. You may need to run your hands under water to keep the potatoes from sticking to you. 
5. In a frying pan, heat the cooking oil to 350F. 
6. Fry the potato balls in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. 
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the potato balls from the hot oil. 
8. Place on a wire rack to drain. 
9. Toss in the remaining grated parmesan, chopped parsley, and salt to taste. Enjoy immediately with a spicy mayo dipping sauce!