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Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

4.4 from 88 reviews

These crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crunchy, cheesy snack. Coated in golden breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, they feature a gooey mozzarella center with savory parmesan and fresh parsley, making them an irresistible appetizer or side.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Mixture

  • 1 1/2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (about 2 oz.)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 1 oz.), plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg

Breading and Frying

  • 3/4 cup dried breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 1/2 inches deep)
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, all-purpose flour, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, black pepper, and the egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and form a sticky mixture.
  2. Shape and Coat Balls: Wet your hands slightly to handle the sticky mixture. Form the mixture into 12 golf-ball-sized balls (about 2 1/2 tablespoons each). Place the dried breadcrumbs on a large plate. Roll each potato ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Set the coated balls on a clean plate.
  3. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). The oil should be about 2 1/2 inches deep or enough to submerge the potato balls. Test the oil by adding a pinch of breadcrumbs; it should bubble vigorously.
  4. Fry the Potato Balls: Carefully add the potato balls to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crisp on all sides.
  5. Drain and Season: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried potato balls to a paper towel-lined sheet pan or plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with kosher salt to taste.
  6. Serve: Serve the crispy fried mashed potato balls hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and parsley for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Use cold mashed potatoes for best results to make shaping easier.
  • Wet your hands when shaping the balls to prevent sticking.
  • Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) to get a crispy exterior and avoid greasy balls.
  • You can prepare the balls in advance and refrigerate them before frying.
  • Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli for added flavor.

Keywords: fried mashed potato balls, mashed potatoes recipe, crispy potato balls, cheesy potato balls, appetizer, party snacks