Imagine taking the comforting, creamy texture of mashed potatoes and turning them into bite-sized, golden delights. Crispy Parmesan Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate fusion of crispy and creamy, combining the rich flavors of butter, Parmesan, and freshly ground black pepper. These savory bites are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday spread, a family gathering, or simply a craving for something hearty yet fun to eat. The fluffy mashed potatoes are enhanced with Parmesan cheese and chives, then breaded and fried to perfection, giving you a satisfying crunch with a soft, flavorful interior.

This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes or add a gourmet twist to classic comfort food. The Parmesan adds a hint of saltiness and umami, while the chives add a touch of freshness that elevates the entire dish. These mashed potato balls are ideal as appetizers, snacks, or even a unique side dish for a memorable meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• Yukon Gold Potatoes – 1 pound (3 to 4 medium-sized), peeled and quartered
• Kosher Salt – 2 tablespoons (for boiling potatoes)
• Unsalted Butter – 3 tablespoons, room temperature
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon, or to taste
• Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup finely grated
• Egg Yolks – 2 large
• Chives – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped

For Breading and Frying:

• Fine Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
• Egg Whites – 2 large
• Vegetable or Canola Oil – for frying
• Salt – to taste

Special Equipment:

• Candy or Frying Thermometer – to monitor oil temperature

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes well and transfer them back to the pot or a large bowl. Mash them until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps for a creamy texture.
3. Add Butter and Seasoning: Stir in the room-temperature butter, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese until the butter has melted and the cheese is evenly incorporated.
4. Incorporate Egg Yolks and Chives: Add the egg yolks and chopped chives to the mashed potatoes, mixing well until fully combined. This will add richness and a touch of color to the mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Potato Balls

1. Form the Balls: Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, portion out the mashed potatoes and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the potato balls for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle during breading and frying.

Step 3: Bread the Potato Balls

1. Prepare Breading Station: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg whites.
2. Bread the Balls: Roll each potato ball first in the egg whites, ensuring they are completely coated, and then roll them in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Fry the Potato Balls

1. Heat Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable or canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or frying thermometer to maintain the temperature.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully drop a few potato balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain and Season: Using a slotted spoon, remove the potato balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season immediately with a sprinkle of salt.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate and Enjoy: Transfer the crispy Parmesan mashed potato balls to a serving plate. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 20-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 1 Ball Approx.)

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g

Servings

• Yields: About 20-24 mashed potato balls

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Crispy Parmesan Mashed Potato Balls capture the essence of comfort food while adding a refined, gourmet twist that makes them perfect for any gathering. This dish appeals to all ages and tastes, and the combination of crispy and creamy textures keeps everyone coming back for more. The simplicity of ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and breadcrumbs makes this dish accessible and budget-friendly, yet it feels indulgent with every bite.

Tips for Making the Perfect Mashed Potato Balls

1. Choose Yukon Gold Potatoes: These have a naturally creamy texture and rich flavor, making them ideal for mashed potato-based recipes.
2. Chill the Potato Balls: Chilling helps them hold their shape while frying, preventing them from falling apart in the hot oil.
3. Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper in both the mashed potatoes and after frying for enhanced flavor.
4. Use Fresh Oil: Fresh oil ensures a clean, crisp texture without any lingering flavors from previous frying.
5. Adjust Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs or mixing panko with regular breadcrumbs.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked potato balls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these mashed potato balls without frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet, turning halfway through until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

2. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Just ensure the potatoes are not overly creamy or they may not hold together as well.

3. What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try sharp cheddar, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

5. How do I prevent the potato balls from falling apart while frying?
Chilling the mashed potato mixture before shaping and breading, as well as ensuring the oil is at the right temperature, will help them hold together.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Mashed Potato Balls bring together all the comforting elements of mashed potatoes with the fun of a crispy, bite-sized appetizer. From the creamy interior, flavored with rich Parmesan and chives, to the golden crust, each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or just as a treat, these mashed potato balls are easy to make, and they make a memorable addition to any table. Enjoy them on their own or paired with a dipping sauce like marinara, sour cream, or a tangy aioli to elevate the experience further. Every time you make these, they’re sure to be a hit, leaving everyone looking forward to the next batch.