Crispy and Easy Homemade Potato Cheese Balls Recipe

Ready to wow your taste buds with something unbelievably delicious and easy to make?

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re incredibly delicious with a perfect balance of creamy potato and melted cheese.
• The crispy outer layer adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft, cheesy interior.
• They are surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any meal or occasion.
• They are endlessly customizable with different cheese and spice options.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike other potato cheese ball recipes, this one focuses on achieving the perfect balance between crispy and gooey. We use a specific ratio of mashed potatoes to cheese and a light coating technique that ensures a golden, crunchy exterior without being overly oily. The subtle blend of seasonings we use adds depth of flavor that will make these your new favorite snack.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooked and cooled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra gooeyness)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well until the cheese is evenly distributed.
2. Add the flour, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the potato-cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
3. Take a small amount of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish or plate.
5. Gently roll each potato cheese ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small breadcrumb sizzles immediately.
7. Carefully place the coated potato cheese balls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
8. Remove the fried potato cheese balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your potato cheese balls to the next level? Try these optional toppings:

• Spicy Mayo: Combine mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to drizzle over the top.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives after frying for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a sweet chili sauce.

Expert Tips

• Ensure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before mixing to prevent the cheese from melting prematurely.
• Don’t overmix the potato mixture after adding the flour to avoid making the potato cheese balls too dense.
• Use a cookie scoop or a small measuring cup to ensure all the balls are the same size for even cooking.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potato cheese balls to achieve the perfect crispy exterior.
• Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; frying in batches is the best way to get them all golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different types of cheese?
  Yes, you can! Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda for a variety of flavors.
• Can I bake these instead of frying?
  Yes, you can. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded balls on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
• Can I make these ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare and bread the potato cheese balls, then store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them for later use. Fry or bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• How do I keep them warm if I’m serving a large group?
  You can keep the fried balls warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C) or on a baking sheet with a wire rack.
• What can I do if the potato mixture is too wet?
  Add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Make sure to add cooled potatoes so the cheese doesn’t melt.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to get creative? Here are a few fun variations:

• Spicy Potato Cheese Balls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
• Herb and Garlic Potato Cheese Balls: Include finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil.
• Loaded Potato Cheese Balls: Mix in cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream into the potato mixture.
• Sweet Potato Cheese Balls: Substitute regular potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a subtly sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These potato cheese balls are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent appetizer for parties, a satisfying snack for game night, or a delightful side dish alongside your favorite meal. They also pair perfectly with a simple salad for a light lunch or brunch. Don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces!

Conclusion

Homemade Potato Cheese Balls are the perfect combination of easy and impressive. They are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone and they can easily be customized to fit your preference. So, grab your ingredients and start creating your own batch of cheesy, crispy deliciousness. Don’t forget to share your photos and tag us! Also, subscribe to our newsletter for more amazing recipes like this! 

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