Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! Arrange breaded balls on a greased baking sheet, spray with a little oil, and bake at 400°F until golden and crispy, about 15-20 minutes. The texture will be lighter, but still lovely.

What mashed potatoes work best?

Slightly firmer mashed potatoes (not super creamy or runny) make shaping easier. Potatoes with a bit of butter and seasoning already in them are perfect; just avoid too much extra cream.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

Yes—shape and bread the balls, then keep them covered in the fridge for up to one day before frying. They’re perfect for prepping ahead for parties!

Are these kid-friendly?

Kids go wild for these crispy potato bites! If making for little ones, you can skip the cayenne and serve with a mild dip for guaranteed smiles.

Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Name: Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups mashed potatoes; 1/4 cup minced red onion; 2 tablespoons chives, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs; Oil for frying (as needed)

Description

Crispy Fried Mashed Potato Balls are a delicious and easy way to use leftover mashed potatoes. Flavored with chives, red onion, garlic, cheddar cheese, and a hint of cayenne, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Mashed Potato Mixture

2 1/2 cups mashed potatoes
1/4 cup minced red onion
2 tablespoons chives, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

Breading & Frying

2 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
Oil for frying (as needed)

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Instructions

Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, minced red onion, chives, garlic, cayenne pepper, and cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Prepare Breading Stations: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl and add the panko bread crumbs in a separate shallow bowl. These will be used for coating the potato balls before frying.
Form the Potato Balls: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to scoop the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll gently between your palms to form smooth balls for even cooking and a consistent shape.
Bread the Potato Balls: Dredge each ball first in the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll in the panko bread crumbs until completely covered. Place the breaded balls on a plate. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture.
Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep saucepan or fryer to a depth suitable for frying. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 360°F (182°C). Test readiness by placing the end of a wooden spoon in the oil—if bubbles form around it, the oil is ready.
Fry the Potato Balls: Fry a few balls at a time, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crispy on all sides. This process is quick, so monitor them closely to avoid over-browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
Drain and Season: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried potato balls. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste while still hot.
Serve: Serve the fried mashed potato balls hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce or dip.

Notes

If you have leftover bacon, crumble it and add to the mashed potato mixture for extra flavor.
For best results, use cold and firm mashed potatoes to shape the balls easily.
You can substitute the sharp white cheddar with your favorite melting cheese.
Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ball
Calories: 95
Sugar: 0.3g
Sodium: 126mg
Fat: 5.2g
Saturated Fat: 1.7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10.1g
Fiber: 0.8g
Protein: 2.4g
Cholesterol: 22mg