Fried Mashed Potato Balls (Printable Version)
Crispy golden potato balls with cheddar and green onion, chilled then fried for a creamy interior and crunchy crust.
# What You'll 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 ground black pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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 Make It:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and one egg until even and well combined.
02 - Scoop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll each portion into a ball approximately 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Arrange prepared balls on a tray.
03 - Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and breadcrumbs in a third. Line bowls up for efficient coating.
04 - Dredge each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs to ensure a thorough coating on all sides.
05 - Arrange the breaded balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to help them set and maintain their shape while frying.
06 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 350°F (175°F). Confirm temperature with a kitchen thermometer.
07 - Carefully add chilled potato balls in batches to the hot oil, frying 2–3 minutes per batch and turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp.
08 - Lift fried potato balls from oil using a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- These are dangerously easy to eat by the handful and even easier to put together than you’d guess.
- You get a crunchy bite, melty cheese, and a creamy center all in one—who can resist?
02 -
- If you’re tempted to skip the chilling step, don’t—your beautiful balls may burst open in the oil.
- Switching to panko breadcrumbs turned my results from good to glorious—worth the small hunt at the store.
03 -
- A little sprinkle of flaky salt on the hot balls right out of the oil boosts their flavor dramatically.
- For extra adventure, tuck a piece of bacon or jalapeño into the center of each ball before rolling.