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Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

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4.2 from 57 reviews

These cheesy fried mashed potato balls are a delicious and crispy appetizer made from leftover mashed potatoes. Perfectly golden and packed with sharp cheddar cheese and chives, they make an ideal snack or party treat that transforms simple leftovers into irresistible bites.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 19 mashed potato balls

Ingredients

Mashed Potato Balls

  • 1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold from fridge from previous 1-3 days)
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (packed)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 TBSP chopped chives or scallions
  • ⅛ tsp salt and pepper

Coating

  • ¼-⅓ cup flour
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

For Frying and Serving

  • Oil for frying (avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil)
  • Optional sour cream for dipping

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes: In a medium bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly using a large spoon until evenly combined.
  2. Scoop into Balls: Using a small cookie scoop (2 teaspoon capacity) or a regular teaspoon measuring 2 teaspoons, portion the mixture into small balls no larger than 1 inch in diameter. Roll each portion into a ball. If they are too soft to hold their shape, chill them in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes to firm up before frying.
  3. Prepare the Coating: Set up three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with a beaten egg (whisked until yolk and white are fully combined), and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each potato ball first in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs to fully cover.
  4. Fry the Mashed Potato Balls: Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a small pot to 375°F. Fry 3-4 potato balls at a time, gently stirring them initially with a slotted spoon to prevent sticking. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining balls.
  5. Serve: Serve hot and crispy with optional sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Leftover fried mashed potato balls can be cooled, frozen, and reheated using the air fryer setting on your oven at 375°F for 16-18 minutes until crispy and hot.
  • You can double the recipe if you have more mashed potatoes leftover; simply scale all ingredients accordingly.
  • Use an oil with a high smoke point such as avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil for frying to achieve the best crispy texture.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/cheesy-fried-mashed-potato-balls-recipe/