These Mozzarella-Stuffed Potato Balls are a deliciously crispy snack or appetizer that’s sure to impress. The soft, flavorful potato mixture is filled with a creamy cheese filling, and each ball is perfectly coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. Fried to golden perfection, these bites are filled with the irresistible flavor of garlic, herbs, and melted mozzarella. Serve them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer at your next party or gathering.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 20-25 potato balls
Ingredients:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled until soft
- 1 tablespoon Provencal herbs (dried)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika powder
- 5 tablespoons flour
- Salt, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 bunch of green herbs (parsley, dill, or chives), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 70g (about 1/2 cup) mozzarella cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- 80g (about 1/3 cup) butter, softened
For the Coating:
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 90g (about 1/3 cup) milk
- 120g (about 1 cup) flour
- Breadcrumbs, as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Potato Mixture:
- Boil the potatoes until soft, then drain and mash them until smooth.
- Add the Provencal herbs, paprika, flour, and salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix everything together until well combined and pliable. Set the mixture aside.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the chopped green herbs, minced garlic, grated mozzarella, and softened butter. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
- Divide the filling into small portions (about 1 teaspoon each) and set aside.
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Shape the Potato Balls:
- Take a small portion of the potato mixture and flatten it in your hand to form a disc.
- Place a portion of the cheese filling in the center and gently shape the potato mixture around it to form a ball, ensuring the filling is completely sealed inside.
- Repeat this process with the remaining potato mixture and filling.
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Coat the Balls:
- In one bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flour in a second bowl and breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
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Fry the Balls:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
- Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Once cooked, remove the balls with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the potato balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce.
- These potato balls make an excellent party appetizer or snack.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
- These potato balls are perfect for a party platter, paired with other finger foods like sliders, veggie sticks, or dips.
- They can also be enjoyed as a side dish with a main course like grilled chicken or roast beef.
Cooking Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the potato balls and freeze them before frying. Just freeze them on a baking sheet and transfer to a bag or container. Fry from frozen when ready to serve, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Fluffier Potatoes: For a fluffier texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets instead of waxy potatoes.
- Add Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices or seasonings like cayenne pepper or garlic powder to give the potato balls extra flavor.
Variations to Try:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the cheese filling and add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers instead for a vegetarian-friendly filling.
- Bacon and Cheese: Add crispy bacon to the filling for a smoky, savory twist.
- Spicy Potato Balls: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the potato mixture for some extra heat.
Conclusion:
These Mozzarella-Stuffed Potato Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The creamy mozzarella and herby filling complement the crispy, golden exterior of the potato balls, making them an irresistible treat. Whether served at a party, as a snack, or with a meal, these cheesy, crispy potato balls are always a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato balls ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Fry them just before serving for the best texture. -
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy. Just make sure to spray them with cooking oil to help with the crisping process. -
What kind of cheese can I use for the filling?
You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese for a creamier filling. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties!
Enjoy your Mozzarella-Stuffed Potato Balls!