Easy Fried Mashed Potato Balls – Perfect Snack or Appetizer!
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Transform leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden-brown potato balls that are irresistibly delicious. These bite-sized treats are perfectly seasoned, coated in crunchiness, and can be served with your favorite dipping sauces for an ultimate snack or appetizer experience. A crowd-pleaser for any occasion, they are quick and easy to make and pair wonderfully with drinks at parties or game nights.
These fried mashed potato balls are a fantastic way to utilize any leftover mashed potatoes you may have sitting in your fridge. Whether you're preparing for a party or just wanting to enjoy a cozy snack at home, these little bites are sure to satisfy.
The Perfect Use for Leftovers
Leftover mashed potatoes can often be found languishing in the fridge, forgotten after a big dinner. Instead of letting them go to waste, repurposing them into crispy fried potato balls is not only a delicious option but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste. These potato balls maintain the delightful essence of your original mashed creation while offering a new textural experience that your family and friends will love.
Transforming leftovers into something new and exciting is a win-win scenario. Not only do fried mashed potato balls save you time on meal prep, but they also add diversity to your dining options. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces and watch as they become an instant hit at any gathering.
Quick and Easy Snack
One of the most appealing aspects of these fried mashed potato balls is their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a tasty snack that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This makes them ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you're simply craving a comforting, indulgent treat.
Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a cozy movie night, or just looking for something to nibble on, these potato balls offer the perfect balance of flavor and satisfaction. Their crisp exterior and soft, cheesy interior are bound to please even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have available or personal preferences. Consider adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you have other leftovers, such as cooked bacon or different cheeses, feel free to incorporate those as well for a unique spin on the classic potato ball.
These delicious bites can easily be made vegetarian or even vegan by substituting the egg and cheese. The adaptability of this recipe means it can fit perfectly into any dietary requirement, making it a go-to for gatherings with diverse guests.
Ingredients
For the Potato Balls
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, flour, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Form the Balls
With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball.
Coat and Fry
Dip each potato ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Serving Suggestions
Fried mashed potato balls can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, sour cream, or a spicy aioli to add an extra layer of flavor. For those looking to elevate the dish even further, try serving them with a zesty dipping sauce made with yogurt, fresh herbs, and lime juice. This contrast of cold, creamy dip with hot fried balls will provide an exciting taste experience.
Pair these delightful treats with crisp salads or refreshing coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. They also complement beverages ranging from craft beers to sparkling sodas, making them a fantastic addition to any party table.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after preparing these fried mashed potato balls, worry not! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back into a hot pan with a little oil or in the oven until heated through. This ensures they retain their delightful crispiness while being warmed.
For longer storage, you can freeze the potato balls before frying them. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, fry them directly from the freezer; just increase the cooking time a minute or two for perfectly crispy results.
Making It a Full Meal
If you are looking to turn these fried mashed potato balls into a complete meal, consider serving them alongside sides like steamed vegetables or a hearty soup. This will not only enhance the flavors but also create a more filling dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
You can also incorporate these potato balls into your meal prep routine by pairing them with protein-rich items such as grilled chicken or fish. This versatility allows you to maintain a healthy diet while still enjoying your favorite comfort foods.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work well too! Just make sure they are properly seasoned.
→ What dipping sauces go well with these potato balls?
They pair great with ketchup, sour cream, or a spicy aioli.
Easy Fried Mashed Potato Balls – Perfect Snack or Appetizer!
Transform leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden-brown potato balls that are irresistibly delicious. These bite-sized treats are perfectly seasoned, coated in crunchiness, and can be served with your favorite dipping sauces for an ultimate snack or appetizer experience. A crowd-pleaser for any occasion, they are quick and easy to make and pair wonderfully with drinks at parties or game nights.
Created by: Hallie Foster
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Potato Balls
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped green onions, flour, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball.
Dip each potato ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 4 balls
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 8g