Get ready to impress your neighbors with these easy and delicious potato balls! Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potato balls are paired with a rich garlic cheese sauce that makes them absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and make these crowd-pleasers that everyone will be asking for!
Ingredients
Potato Balls:
- 3 large potatoes (800g)
- Salt, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
Garlic Cheese Sauce:
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- ~3 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter (50g)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- ~3/4 cup of milk (200ml)
- 100g of cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 cup of water (50ml)
Instructions
Potato Balls:
- Preparation:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add salt to taste and mix in 3-4 tablespoons of cornstarch until well combined. 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.
- Carefully add the potato balls to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the potato balls 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, ensuring no lumps form.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/4 cup of water to adjust the consistency.
- Return to low heat if necessary to fully melt the cheese and blend the sauce.
More Information
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the potato balls hot with the garlic cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
- Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the potatoes are well mashed to avoid lumps in the potato balls.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more milk or water if it becomes too thick.
- Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
- The garlic cheese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These potato balls are incredibly easy to make and deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Paired with the rich and creamy garlic cheese sauce, they create a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging in a delicious snack. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make these potato balls a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes:
- Rich in vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
- Provide energy-boosting carbohydrates.
- Cheddar Cheese:
- A good source of high-quality protein and calcium.
- Contains essential vitamins like A and B12.
- Garlic:
- Known for its potential health benefits, including immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Butter and Milk:
- Provide essential fats and proteins.
- Rich in vitamins A, D, and B12.
Conclusion
These Crispy Homemade Potato Balls with Garlic Cheese Sauce are a must-try recipe that will leave everyone asking for more. With their perfect combination of textures and flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to make these delicious potato balls that are better than any fast-food fries. Enjoy this delightful treat with friends and family, and watch as they disappear in no time. Bon Appétit!