Crispy, Easy & Delicious Fried Potato Balls

Craving a crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible snack?

Look no further! These Fried Potato Balls are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re bursting with savory, comforting flavor from perfectly seasoned potatoes.
• The crispy exterior provides a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy interior.
• They’re surprisingly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and simple steps.
• These fried potato balls are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering.
• You can easily customize them with your favorite spices, cheeses, or dipping sauces for endless variations.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these fried potato balls apart is the focus on achieving the perfect balance of textures and flavors. We use a specific cooking technique that ensures the potato filling is incredibly soft and creamy, while the exterior is wonderfully crisp and golden brown. A touch of garlic powder and a hint of fresh parsley in the potato mixture add a layer of complexity that makes them truly unforgettable.

Ingredient List

• 2 lbs Russet Potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 2 Large Eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Freshly Chopped Parsley
• Vegetable Oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then mash them thoroughly in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Add the ingredients: Add the flour, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
4. Shape into balls: Roll the potato mixture into 1.5 inch balls.
5. Heat the oil: In a deep heavy-bottomed pot or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the balls: Carefully place the potato balls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy all over.
7. Remove and drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried potato balls from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy and delicious potato balls!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to add some extra flair to your potato balls!

• Spicy Dip: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a zesty dip.
• Garlic Aioli: Combine mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
• Cheese Sauce: Melt cheddar cheese with milk for a classic cheese sauce.
• Herb Sprinkle: Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a mix of herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your potatoes are thoroughly mashed and smooth to prevent lumps in the balls.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature for even cooking.
• Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) for optimal crispness.
• Let the fried potato balls drain well on a wire rack to keep them crispy rather than soggy.
• Add the salt right before you mix the other ingredients so the moisture doesn’t leach out of the potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different kind of potato? Yes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
• Can I bake these instead of frying? While frying is recommended for the best crispiness, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Can I prepare the potato mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bring it back to room temperature before forming the balls.
• How do I store leftover fried potato balls? Store leftover fried potato balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
• Can I freeze the potato balls? Yes, you can freeze them after shaping them but before frying them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative with these potato balls!

• Cheese Lovers: Add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese to the potato mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped jalapenos for a little heat.
• Herbaceous: Mix in dried Italian herbs, fresh chives, or dill for a fragrant twist.
• Bacon Bits: Fold in cooked and crumbled bacon for a savory and smoky flavor.
• Mushroom Magic: Sauté finely chopped mushrooms and mix them into the potato filling.

Serving Suggestions

These Fried Potato Balls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with various dips and meals. Serve them as a tasty appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, or as a flavorful side dish alongside burgers, steak, or roasted chicken. They’re also great as a snack anytime you need a comforting bite.

Conclusion

These Fried Potato Balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfectly customizable, they’re the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how you customized yours! Subscribe to our newsletter for more mouthwatering recipes!