Ingredients

For the Potato Mozzarella Balls:

• 2 medium potatoes (approximately 450g)
• Water (for boiling)
• 1/5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 100g corn starch
• 5g coriander, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories per Serving: Approximately 220 kcal

Steps to Make It

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks for quicker cooking.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
4. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them cool slightly.

2. Mash the Potatoes

1. Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large bowl.
2. Mash them with a potato masher or fork until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Add the black pepper, salt, and finely chopped coriander to the mashed potatoes and mix well.

3. Incorporate the Cheese and Cornstarch

1. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the mashed potatoes and mix until evenly distributed.
2. Gradually add the cornstarch, mixing with your hands or a spatula until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency. It should be firm enough to shape into balls.

4. Shape the Potato Balls

1. Take a small portion of the potato mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it into a ball between your palms.
2. Repeat with the remaining mixture until all the dough is shaped into balls.

5. Cook the Potato Balls

1. Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the potato balls to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd them.
3. Fry the balls, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides—this should take about 5–7 minutes per batch.
4. Once cooked, transfer the balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Cheesy Potato Mozzarella Balls are a timeless snack because they bring together two universally beloved ingredients: potatoes and cheese. Potatoes are a comfort food staple across cultures, and mozzarella’s melty, stretchy allure has made it a favorite worldwide. This dish is timeless not only because it’s delicious but also because it’s incredibly versatile.

Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, these potato balls offer warmth, comfort, and an irresistible crispiness. They also transcend age and taste barriers—kids love the gooey cheese center, while adults appreciate the crispy texture and rich flavors. Furthermore, this dish requires simple, everyday ingredients, making it accessible to anyone who wants to create a delicious homemade snack without much fuss.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any other melty cheese you prefer. Each cheese will bring its unique flavor to the dish.

2. Can these be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.

3. Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely. You can add spices like paprika, chili flakes, or herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the flavor.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Potato Mozzarella Balls

1. Drain the Potatoes Well:
   • Make sure to drain the boiled potatoes thoroughly to avoid a soggy mixture.
2. Consistency of the Dough:
   • If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more cornstarch to achieve the right consistency.
3. Use Cold Mozzarella:
   • Cold mozzarella is easier to work with and ensures a gooey, melty center when cooked.
4. Uniform Ball Size:
   • Try to make the potato balls the same size so they cook evenly.
5. Serve Fresh:
   • These are best served hot to enjoy the full gooey effect of the cheese.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:
Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan over low heat to restore their crispiness.

Freezing:
These potato balls freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen by frying or baking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Potato Mozzarella Balls are more than just a snack—they represent the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence in every bite. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of tender, fluffy potatoes and melting mozzarella cheese, all encased in a crispy golden crust. These potato balls are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect addition to any meal, whether as an appetizer, side dish, or a simple snack to enjoy on their own. They effortlessly combine savory, cheesy, and crispy elements, providing a rich and satisfying experience with every bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With only a few basic ingredients like potatoes, mozzarella cheese, and seasonings, you can create something truly spectacular that appeals to all tastes. While the ingredients are straightforward, the result is anything but ordinary. Each ball offers a warm, gooey center that oozes mozzarella with every bite, surrounded by a perfectly crispy coating that adds the ideal crunch. It’s the perfect balance of textures that makes these cheesy potato balls irresistibly delicious.

What makes these Cheesy Potato Mozzarella Balls timeless is their universal appeal. Whether you’re feeding a group of friends at a party, serving them as a comforting side dish at a family dinner, or enjoying them on your own as a snack, these potato balls are always a hit. Their popularity spans across generations, bringing back memories of family gatherings, cozy nights at home, and celebrations where food is meant to be shared and savored. These potato balls carry that same warmth and joy, making them a perfect choice for any occasion.

Moreover, they are incredibly adaptable. While mozzarella cheese remains the star of the dish, you can easily experiment with other cheeses or add extra fillings like herbs, vegetables, or even bacon to cater to different tastes. The versatility of this recipe means that you can make these cheesy potato balls your own, adjusting the flavors and textures to suit your preferences. It’s this flexibility, combined with their heartwarming flavors, that makes these potato balls a timeless favorite in kitchens worldwide.