cheesy potato balls

Here’s a tasty recipe for Cheesy Potato Balls — crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side!

🧀🥔 Cheesy Potato Balls

Ingredients:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten (for coating)

• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Panko works great for crispiness)

• Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Mix the Filling:
   In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan (if using), green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and combined.

2. Shape the Balls:
   Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. Place on a tray.

3. Coat the Balls:
   Roll each ball in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs.

4. Fry:
   Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes. Avoid overcrowding.

5. Drain:
   Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve:
   Enjoy warm with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce!

📝 Tips:

• For extra gooey centers, add a small cube of cheese inside each ball before coating.

• You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway, for a lighter version.

• Mix in cooked bacon bits or herbs for variety.