Name: Fried Mashed Potato Balls: Amazing 20-Min Appetizer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives; 1 tsp garlic powder; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs; Vegetable oil, for frying (if using stovetop method)

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Fried mashed potato balls have become my absolute go-to for transforming humble leftovers into something truly special. I remember one particularly busy weeknight when I found myself staring at a bowl of perfectly good mashed potatoes and had zero inspiration. That’s when I discovered how to make these golden, crispy delights, and my whole approach to leftover mashed potato recipes changed forever. The first time I pulled a batch of these golden spheres from the fryer, the aroma of savory potato and melted cheese filled my kitchen, promising a delicious treat. They’re the perfect crispy mashed potato croquettes that have everyone asking for the recipe. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Fried Mashed Potato Balls

They transform leftovers into a gourmet appetizer.
The perfect balance of crispy exterior and cheesy, savory interior makes for an irresistible bite.
You can whip up these easy mashed potato balls in under 30 minutes total time.
A budget-friendly way to create a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will adore.
The air fryer option offers a healthier, less oily alternative without sacrificing crispiness.
These easy mashed potato balls are a fantastic way to get picky eaters to enjoy potato leftovers.
They’re incredibly versatile and perfect for parties or a simple weeknight snack.
You’ll be amazed at how satisfying these simple potato fritters are!

Ingredients for Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these amazing fried mashed potato balls. You’ll need about 3 cups of leftover mashed potatoes – cold ones work best for shaping! For that irresistible flavor, we’re adding 3 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled, and 2/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. These ingredients really make them the ultimate mashed potato balls with cheese. We’ll also toss in 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced chives for a fresh oniony bite, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Don’t forget a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For coating, you’ll need 2 eggs, beaten, and 1 1/3 cups of panko bread crumbs for that signature crunch. If you’re frying them on the stovetop, have about 3 inches of vegetable oil ready!

How to Make Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Ready to turn those leftover mashed potatoes into something spectacular? It’s surprisingly simple! These steps will guide you through making the best fried mashed potato balls, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out. We’ll cover everything from shaping the perfect sphere to achieving that coveted golden-brown crispiness. Get ready to learn exactly how to fry mashed potatoes in the most delicious way possible!

Step 1: Combine the mashed potato mixture. In a large bowl, gently combine your cold leftover mashed potatoes with the crumbled cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Mix everything together until it’s just combined – you don’t want to overmix, or they might become gummy.
Step 2: Shape and coat the potato balls. Set up two shallow bowls for coating: one with the beaten eggs and the other with the panko bread crumbs. Scoop about 1 to 2-inch balls of the potato mixture using a cookie scoop or your hands. Roll them into smooth, compact balls. This is a key step in how to make fried mashed potato balls that hold their shape.
Step 3: Coat each ball. Dip each potato ball first into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, letting any excess drip off. Then, transfer it to the bowl of panko bread crumbs, rolling it around until it’s completely covered. Press the crumbs gently onto the balls to help them adhere. This double coating is what gives us those amazing crispy potato balls.
Step 4: Prepare for cooking. At this point, you’ll want to preheat your cooking method. If you’re pan-frying, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C) as well.
Step 5: Fry the potato balls. Now for the magic! This is where we learn how to fry mashed potatoes to perfection.

Fried Mashed Potato Balls: Amazing 20-Min Appetizer - Fried Mashed Potato Balls - additional detail

Stovetop Frying Method

Carefully place a few coated potato balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry them in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently with a slotted spoon. You’re looking for a beautiful, deep golden brown color. Once they’re perfectly crisp, remove them with the slotted spoon and drain them on a wire rack set over paper towels. A little sprinkle of salt immediately after frying enhances the flavor.

Air Fryer Method

Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be gorgeously golden and wonderfully crisp. Season with a pinch of salt right away!

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Mashed Potato Balls

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make these fried mashed potato balls absolutely perfect every time. Following these tips will ensure you get the crispiest, most delicious potato fritters possible.

Always use cold mashed potatoes. Warm potatoes are too soft and difficult to shape, and they can lead to soggier results.
Don’t overmix the potato mixture once you’ve added the ingredients. Overworking it can make the inside dense and gummy rather than fluffy.
Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) if frying on the stovetop. Too low and they absorb oil, too high and they burn before cooking through.
Let the coated balls rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the panko coating adhere better.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy mashed potato croquettes?

The real secret to achieving those perfect crispy mashed potato croquettes is a good coating and the right frying temperature. Using panko bread crumbs is non-negotiable for maximum crunch. Also, ensure your mashed potatoes are thoroughly chilled; this prevents them from falling apart and helps avoid that dreaded soggy texture. For more on achieving perfect textures in cooking, you might find resources on food science helpful.

Can I make mashed potato fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can prepare these mashed potato fritters ahead of time! Once you’ve shaped and coated the balls, you can place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This makes party prep a breeze! If you’re planning a party, consider pairing these with other easy appetizers like bruschetta.

How do I avoid common mistakes with fried mashed potato balls?

A common pitfall is using warm mashed potatoes, which makes shaping difficult and can lead to a less crispy exterior. Another mistake is overcrowding the pan or air fryer; this lowers the temperature and results in greasy, unevenly cooked balls. Always work in batches! For more tips on avoiding common cooking errors, check out general cooking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Fried Potato Appetizer

These golden beauties are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect fried potato appetizer for any occasion. I love serving them alongside a cool, creamy dip – ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli are fantastic choices. For a more substantial appetizer spread, pair these savory mashed potato bites with a fresh green salad or some crispy chicken wings. They’re also a hit at parties, often disappearing before I can even finish setting them out! They truly elevate any gathering into something a bit more special. Consider serving them with a refreshing drink.

Nutrition Facts for Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Let’s talk about what you’re getting with each delicious serving of these fried mashed potato balls. It’s always good to know what you’re eating, especially when you’re serving them to guests or trying to stick to a diet. Remember, these are estimates, as the exact values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, like the fat content of your bacon or the type of cheese.

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5 potato balls)
Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sodium: 450 mg
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 1.5 g
Protein: 10 g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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How to Store and Reheat Fried Mashed Potato Balls

Don’t let any of these delicious fried mashed potato balls go to waste! Once they’ve cooled completely on a wire rack, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. These are fantastic for making ahead, especially if you’re planning a party or just want some easy snacks later in the week. For longer storage, these crispy potato balls freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. This makes them one of the best leftover mashed potato recipes for future cravings! For other make-ahead meal ideas, explore our recipes section.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. For the crispiest results, I highly recommend using your oven or air fryer. Place the cooled fried mashed potato balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. In an air fryer, reheat them at 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures you get that satisfying crunch back!

Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Mashed Potato Balls

What are fried mashed potato balls?

Fried mashed potato balls are essentially cooked mashed potatoes, often mixed with savory ingredients like cheese, bacon, or herbs, then shaped into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried or air-fried until golden and crispy. They’re a fantastic appetizer or snack that uses up leftover mashed potatoes.

Can I make fried mashed potato balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the un-fried potato balls up to 24 hours in advance. Shape them, coat them in the egg and panko, and then arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely and refrigerate. This makes them super convenient for parties! If you’re looking for more make-ahead appetizer ideas, consider cinnamon rolls for a sweet option.

Why are my fried mashed potato balls soggy?

Soggy mashed potato balls are usually a result of a few things: the mashed potatoes not being cold enough when shaping, the oil not being hot enough (if frying), or overcrowding the pan or air fryer. Make sure your oil is at the proper temperature (around 375°F or 190°C) and fry in batches to ensure they get nice and crispy.

What are some good dipping sauces for fried mashed potato bites?

These fried mashed potato bites are delicious with a variety of dips! Classic choices include ranch dressing, sour cream, or a simple garlic aioli. For a bit of a kick, try a chipotle mayo or a sriracha-based sauce. They also pair well with BBQ sauce or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile. If you’re making your own dips, fresh tomatoes can be a great base for a fresh salsa.

Variations of Fried Mashed Potato Balls You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to customize these fried mashed potato balls! They’re incredibly adaptable, and I love experimenting with new flavor combinations. If you’re looking for a truly decadent treat, my cheesy mashed potato balls recipe variation is a must-try. Simply add extra cheese like Gruyere or pepper jack for a flavor boost.

Spicy Jalapeño Popper: Mix in finely diced fresh jalapeños and extra cheddar cheese for a spicy kick.
Herb Garden: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives directly into the potato mixture for added freshness.
Mediterranean Twist: Add some crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a pinch of oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Sweet Potato Mash-Up: Swap out regular mashed potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter flavor profile.