Crispy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

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This Crispy Mashed Potato Balls recipe is the perfect comfort food snack or side dish. These crispy, golden, and soft mashed potato balls are easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and packed with delicious seasonings. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a party appetizer, these potato balls are guaranteed to impress everyone who tastes them. The outer layer is crispy and crunchy, while the inside is soft and creamy, offering a perfect balance of textures.

The recipe uses basic ingredients such as potatoes, butter, egg, parsley, and Parmesan cheese, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a wonderful way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh ones for this delectable dish. With the right seasonings and a quick fry in the pan, these mashed potato balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them utterly irresistible.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Cuisine

This recipe is a simple variation of classic mashed potatoes, taking inspiration from global comfort food trends. Potato balls are commonly seen in many cultures, including in Eastern European and South American cuisines, where mashed potatoes are often used to create crispy, savory treats. This particular version, with its addition of Parmesan and seasonings, offers a modern twist on a well-loved classic.

Full List of Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling)
2 tablespoons butter

1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
1 egg
A small handful of parsley, finely chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten (for coating)

Pinch of salt (for beaten eggs)
1 cup flour (for coating)
1 cup bread crumbs (for coating)

1 tablespoon butter (for frying)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by peeling and cutting the 4 medium potatoes into chunks. Place the potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, stir in 1 teaspoon of salt and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the potatoes for about 14 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Drain and Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the hot potatoes. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Set the mashed potatoes aside to cool slightly.
Season the Mashed Potatoes:
Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, add 1 egg and a small handful of finely chopped parsley to the potatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and sweet paprika. Mix everything well to combine. The parsley will add a touch of freshness, while the spices and seasonings bring out the depth of flavor in the potatoes. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to add richness and a delicious cheesy flavor.
Shape the Potato Balls:
Using a small scoop or your hands, form the mashed potato mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a plate, repeating the process with the remaining mashed potato mixture.

Prepare for Coating:
In a shallow bowl, place 1 cup of flour. In another shallow bowl, beat 2 eggs and season with a pinch of salt. In a third shallow bowl, place 1 cup of bread crumbs. One by one, roll the mashed potato balls in the flour to coat, then dip them into the beaten egg, rolling to coat evenly. Finally, roll each ball in the bread crumbs until fully coated. This triple-coating process will ensure the balls turn out crispy and golden when fried.
Fry the Potato Balls:
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and hot, flatten each potato ball slightly with your hand and place it in the skillet. Fry the potato balls for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the balls carefully to avoid breaking them.
Drain and Serve:
Once the potato balls are crispy and golden on both sides, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 10 g

Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g

Sodium: 350 mg
Cholesterol: 60 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Mashed potato balls are a popular comfort food in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to Latin America. This recipe is a fusion of flavors, combining the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the crispy crunch of fried breading. In some countries, mashed potato balls are made with a filling, such as cheese or meat, but this version focuses on the delicious simplicity of mashed potatoes and seasoning.

Potato croquettes, a similar dish, are often deep-fried, but this version, which involves shallow frying with butter, is less oily and lighter while still achieving a satisfying crunch. The trend of transforming mashed potatoes into new forms, such as balls or patties, has gained popularity due to the ease of preparation and the ability to customize the filling or coating.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy on the Outside, Creamy on the Inside: The perfect combination of crispy golden breading and soft mashed potatoes creates a mouthwatering contrast that is irresistible.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare with minimal ingredients, making it a go-to snack or side dish for busy days.

Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings, herbs, or fillings to make these potato balls your own.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These mashed potato balls store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making them ideal for meal prepping.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these crispy mashed potato balls, making them a hit at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Health Benefits

Good Source of Carbohydrates: Potatoes provide a great source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy and overall health.
Rich in Fiber: The addition of parsley and other seasonings not only enhances the flavor but also adds extra fiber to the dish, promoting healthy digestion.
High in Protein: The egg and Parmesan cheese contribute to a higher protein content, which helps build and repair muscle.

Vitamin C: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Customizable to Dietary Needs: You can easily modify this recipe to suit various dietary restrictions, such as making it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs and flour.

Serving Suggestions

Dipping Sauces: Serve the crispy potato balls with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli for extra flavor.

Side Salad: Pair them with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the fried balls.
Soup: These mashed potato balls are great alongside a bowl of tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting meal.
Gravy: Serve with gravy for an even richer experience, making it a hearty addition to any holiday meal or dinner.

As an Appetizer: These potato balls are perfect for serving as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.

Cooking Tips

Ensure the Potatoes Are Fully Cooled: Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before shaping them into balls. This prevents the balls from falling apart during the frying process.
Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: If you want extra crispy potato balls, double coat them by dipping them in the egg and bread crumbs twice.

Test the Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the balls to prevent them from absorbing too much oil. You can test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of bread — it should sizzle immediately.
Use a Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick skillet will make it easier to flip the potato balls without them sticking.
Freezing for Later: If you have leftovers, these potato balls freeze well. Simply freeze them on a tray before placing them in a freezer bag, and fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

Variations to Try

Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls: Add a piece of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of each ball before coating and frying for a cheesy surprise.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.
Meat-Filled: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or bacon bits to the mashed potato mixture for a meaty version.

Vegan Option: Omit the eggs and cheese, and use plant-based alternatives to make a vegan version of these crispy potato balls.
Sweet Potato Balls: Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

These Crispy Mashed Potato Balls are a versatile and easy-to-make snack or side dish that everyone will love. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a snack, or something to impress at your next gathering, these mashed potato balls are sure to be a hit!

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

Can I make these potato balls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato mixture, shape the balls, and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying.
Can I freeze the mashed potato balls? Yes, you can freeze the shaped potato balls before frying. Place them on a tray in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. The process is the same, but the balls will have a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I make these without cheese? Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version or simply want a lighter taste.
Can I make these without breadcrumbs? Yes, you can use crushed cornflakes or ground almonds as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
How do I store leftovers? Leftover potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best results.

What can I dip these potato balls in? These potato balls are perfect for dipping in ketchup, ranch, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.
Can I add vegetables to the potato mixture? Yes, you can add finely chopped spinach, peas, or carrots for an added boost of nutrients and flavor.
How do I keep the potato balls from falling apart while frying? Ensure the mashed potatoes are cooled before shaping and that you coat them well in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.

What kind of oil should I use for frying? Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil for frying these potato balls. These oils have a high smoke point, making them ideal for frying.