Easy Fried Mashed Potato Balls – Crispy, Cheesy & Irresistible
These Easy Fried Mashed Potato Balls are golden, crispy, and stuffed with gooey cheese! Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside – a perfect comfort food bite!
Equipment
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Mixing bowls and plates
- Optional: baking sheet (for oven-baked version)
- Thermometer (for oil temperature control)
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1–2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
- Optional mix-ins: crumbled bacon, chives, garlic powder, diced vegetables
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Chill mashed potatoes for at least 30 minutes.
- Portion into evenly sized balls using a cookie scoop or hands.
- Roll each ball into a smooth sphere.
- Coat in flour → dip in beaten egg → roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
- Fry potato balls in small batches until golden brown (3–5 minutes).
- Drain on paper towels.
- Optional: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes for a healthier version.
- Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping.
- Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch.
- Experiment with cheese, herbs, and mix-ins for personalized flavor.
- Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving if you want them crunchy.