Crispy Potato Balls with Garlic Cheese Sauce are the ultimate comfort food! Perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, with soft and fluffy mashed potatoes inside, these delightful bites pair beautifully with a creamy, garlicky cheddar cheese sauce. Whether served as a party appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, they’re sure to be a hit.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Potato Balls:
- Potatoes: 3 large (800 g)
- Salt: To taste
- Cornstarch: 3-4 tablespoons
- Vegetable Oil: For frying
For the Garlic Cheese Sauce:
- Garlic: 5 cloves, minced
- Butter: 3½ tablespoons (50 g)
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
- Milk: ¾ cup (200 ml)
- Cheddar Cheese: 100 g, grated
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Paprika: ¼ teaspoon
- Water: ¼ cup (50 ml)
Directions
Potato Balls:
- Preparation: Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes in a large bowl until smooth. Add salt to taste and mix in 3-4 tablespoons of cornstarch. The mixture should be firm enough to shape into balls.
- Form the Potato Balls: Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut. Place the formed balls on a tray and set aside.
- Fry the Potato Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. Fry the potato balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Garlic Cheese Sauce:
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and cook for another minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted. Add salt, paprika, and water to adjust the consistency. Return to low heat if needed to blend the sauce thoroughly.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a party appetizer with the garlic cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty main course.
- Use the sauce as a dip for other sides like breadsticks or roasted vegetables.
5 Cooking Tips
- Ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and free of lumps for a smoother texture.
- Test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of potato mixture into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to maintain even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust the consistency of the cheese sauce by adding more milk or water if needed.
- For added flavor, mix grated Parmesan or herbs into the potato mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and dietary fiber.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for bone health.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants and may boost immunity.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure the cornstarch is gluten-free certified)
- Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese for a dairy-free option)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover potato balls and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked potato balls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before frying.
- Reheating: Reheat the potato balls in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy and flavorful on the inside.
- Perfect for parties, family dinners, or snacks.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices.
- The garlic cheese sauce is rich, creamy, and irresistibly good.
- A comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Conclusion
Crispy Potato Balls with Garlic Cheese Sauce are the ultimate comfort food, combining crunchy textures and creamy flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe delivers deliciousness that’s hard to resist. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake the potato balls instead of frying? Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, but the texture may be softer. Add more cornstarch if needed.
- Can I make the potato balls ahead of time? Yes, form the balls and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before frying.
- What other cheeses work for the sauce? Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.
- How do I prevent the balls from breaking apart while frying? Ensure the mixture is firm enough by adding more cornstarch if needed and fry at the correct oil temperature.
- Can I add herbs or spices to the potato balls? Yes, parsley, chives, or paprika make great additions.
- What if my sauce is too thick? Add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
- How do I store leftover sauce? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
- What dipping sauces go well with this dish? Ranch, marinara, or sour cream are delicious alternatives.
- Can I make the sauce without cheese? Yes, substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights that are sure to impress everyone! 🥔🧄🧀