Sure, let’s delve into the delightful world of Mashed Potato Balls! These savory treats are not only a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes but are also a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior, these Mashed Potato Balls are bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
- Mashed potatoes (6-10 cups, depending on desired yield)
- Garlic (1 clove, minced)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
- Egg (1, beaten)
- Cornflakes (1 cup, crushed)
- Oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
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Preheat Skillet: Begin by preheating a large skillet with enough oil to half-cover the potato balls. This ensures even frying and a crispy exterior.
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Prepare Mashed Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with minced garlic, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. The garlic adds a savory kick, while the cheese provides richness and depth of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
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Form Potato Balls: Using your hands, roll the mashed potato mixture into balls, each about 2 inches in diameter. The size can vary depending on personal preference, but aim for uniformity for even cooking.
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Coat with Egg: In a shallow dish, beat the egg until well-combined. Dip each potato ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
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Roll in Cornflakes: Roll the egg-coated potato balls in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere. The cornflakes add a crispy, golden coating that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
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Fry Potato Balls: Carefully place the coated potato balls into the preheated oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the balls until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning them occasionally for even browning. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
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Serve: Once the potato balls are evenly browned and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the mashed potato balls hot as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
These Mashed Potato Balls are not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or additional mix-ins like bacon bits or chopped green onions for extra flavor. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters, making them a win-win for the whole family. So, whip up a batch of these irresistible Mashed Potato Balls for your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!
