Description
Crispy and savory Fried Mashed Potato Balls made from leftover mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic powder. These golden bites are coated in panko and either deep-fried or air-fried to perfection, making a delicious appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 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
Coating
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/3 cups panko bread crumbs
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (if using stovetop method)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine leftover mashed potatoes with cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Potato Balls: Place beaten eggs and panko bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Using a small cookie scoop, portion 1 to 2-inch balls of the mashed potato mixture. Roll each portion into a smooth ball using your hands, then first coat by rolling in the beaten egg, followed by dredging in the panko bread crumbs until fully covered. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Cook the Potato Balls (Stovetop Method): Pour vegetable oil into a large cast iron skillet to a depth of about 3 inches and heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 375°F on a candy thermometer. Carefully fry the potato balls in batches, allowing them to cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until each side is golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Season immediately with additional kosher salt.
- Cook the Potato Balls (Air Fryer Method): Arrange the prepared potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 375°F for approximately 10 minutes, or until the panko coating is golden and crisp. Remove from the air fryer and season immediately with kosher salt before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use cold leftover mashed potatoes as they hold together better when forming balls.
- If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs can be used, though panko yields a crispier texture.
- The air fryer method is a healthier alternative that reduces oil usage significantly.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially after frying as the coating may mute some flavors.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure oil is at the correct temperature to achieve a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5 potato balls)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
