Cheddar Bacon Potato Balls Recipe
These crispy and cheesy Potato Balls are a delicious appetizer or snack, combining creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and fresh chives, all coated in a crunchy Parmesan-panko crust and deep-fried to golden perfection.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 potato balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Potato Mixture
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (chilled)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup chives (chopped)
Coating
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
For Frying
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, and chopped chives until well combined.
- Form balls: Using an ice cream scoop, portion the potato mixture and roll each portion into a smooth ball shape.
- Prepare coating mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese with the panko breadcrumbs and set aside.
- Coat the balls: Roll each potato ball first in the all-purpose flour until evenly coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large pot, enough to fully submerge the balls, and heat it to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the potato balls: Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried potato balls and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are well chilled before forming balls; this helps them hold their shape during frying.
- For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder or paprika to the potato mixture.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to retain crispiness rather than microwaving.
Keywords: potato balls, crispy potato bites, cheesy potato appetizer, fried potato balls, bacon potato snacks