Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
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.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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