Mashed potatoes are a staple in many households, and they’re often served as a side dish with a savory meal. But have you ever considered using leftover mashed potatoes to make a delicious snack? One popular way to enjoy mashed potatoes is by frying them into delectable little balls, and the best part is that they don’t require any flour.
This recipe has been around for quite some time and has become a favorite among families and friends. It’s an easy and affordable way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into a scrumptious snack that everyone will love.
What makes these fried mashed potato balls so special is their versatility. You can add your favorite herbs or spices to give them a unique flavor, and they pair well with a variety of dipping sauces.
If you’re looking for the perfect occasion to indulge in this yummy snack, consider hosting a game night or movie marathon with friends or family. These savory bites make for a great appetizer or snack to enjoy during a night of fun and games.
Ingredients Needed:
Mashed Potato Balls:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes or prepare fresh mashed potatoes and let them cool before using.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and helps bind the mashed potato balls.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory and cheesy flavor to the balls.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill): Enhances the taste and adds freshness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
Coating:
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder for the coating.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating.
Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying: Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil.
Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients and forming the mashed potato balls.
- Baking sheet: To place the formed mashed potato balls before frying.
- Deep skillet or frying pan: For frying the mashed potato balls.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: To carefully flip and remove the fried mashed potato balls from the oil.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together.
Step 2: Shape the Mashed Potato Balls
- Take a small portion of the mashed potato mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball.
- Repeat the process until all the mashed potato mixture is used, placing the formed balls on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Coat the Mashed Potato Balls
- In a shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
- Dip each mashed potato ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is coated all over.
- Then roll the ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs to the surface.
Step 4: Fry the Mashed Potato Balls
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the coated mashed potato balls into the hot oil, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the balls until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, using tongs or a slotted spoon to gently flip them.
- Once fried, remove the mashed potato balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tips and Tricks To Know:
- For extra flavor, you can add grated cheese, cooked bacon bits, or sautéed onions to the mashed potato mixture before shaping the balls.
- To ensure a crispy coating, make sure the mashed potato balls are well-coated with the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the mashed potato balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the fried mashed potato balls as an appetizer or snack with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or sour cream.
- Pair them with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a light and satisfying meal.
- Add them as a delicious and unique topping to a salad or bowl of soup for added texture and flavor.
- Serve them alongside other finger foods at a party or gathering.
Storage Options and Shelf Life:
- These mashed potato balls are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the leftover mashed potato balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Note that the texture may not be as crispy when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh mashed potatoes?
- A1: While fresh mashed potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a shortcut. Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, let them cool, and then proceed with the recipe.
Q2: Can I freeze the mashed potato balls before frying?
- A2: Yes, you can freeze the shaped mashed potato balls on a baking sheet until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to fry, thaw them in the refrigerator before proceeding with coating and frying.
Q3: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?
- A3: Sure, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
Q4: Can I bake the mashed potato balls instead of frying?
- A4: Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the mashed potato balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Q5: Can I use other seasonings or spices to flavor the mashed potato balls?
- A5: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor. Some options include paprika, onion powder, dried herbs, or chili flakes.
Q6: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
- A6: Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes to make sweet potato balls. The cooking time and texture may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Q7: Can I make the mashed potato balls in advance and fry them later?
- A7: Yes, you can shape the mashed potato balls and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. This can be convenient when preparing them for a gathering or party.
Fried Mashed Potato Balls
This recipe is for fried mashed potato balls that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They are a delicious and versatile snack or appetizer that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Deep skillet or frying pan
- – Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together.
- Take a small portion of the mashed potato mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Repeat the process until all the mashed potato mixture is used, placing the formed balls on a baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish. Dip each mashed potato ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is coated all over. Then roll the ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs to the surface.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the coated mashed potato balls into the hot oil, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the balls until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, using tongs or a slotted spoon to gently flip them.
- Once fried, remove the mashed potato balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add grated cheese, cooked bacon bits, or sautéed onions to the mashed potato mixture before shaping the balls.
- To ensure a crispy coating, make sure the mashed potato balls are well-coated with the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the mashed potato balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
