If there’s one recipe that made me fall in love with cooking all over again, it’s mashed potato balls! I made these for the first time for a weekend get-together, and honestly, I couldn’t believe how quickly they vanished from the plate.

Crispy on the outside and filled with gooey, cheesy, bacon goodness inside, these potato balls are the ultimate comfort food with a fun twist. The best part? They’re super easy to make and totally customizable.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish, these mashed potato balls are a guaranteed hit. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll want to make them every chance you get!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Mashed potato balls are more than just tasty treats – they’re a fantastic recipe for so many reasons! Let’s break down why you’ll fall in love with them.

1. Easy to Prepare

Don’t be intimidated! These potato balls require basic kitchen skills. The recipe uses simple techniques like boiling, mashing, and frying, so it’s beginner-friendly. Even if you don’t often cook, you can whip these up effortlessly.

2. Super Versatile

This recipe is like a blank canvas. You can add different cheeses, swap out fillings, or even bake them instead of frying. Customize them to your taste buds or the ingredients you have on hand!

3. Kid-Friendly

Mashed potato balls are perfect for little eaters. The crispy crust and cheesy filling make them an irresistible treat for kids. Plus, you can sneak in veggies like corn or peas to add nutrition in a fun way.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

Hosting a party? These bite-sized morsels are guaranteed to impress. Serve them with a mix of dipping sauces, and you’ve got an appetizer that everyone will rave about.

5. Comfort Food at Its Best

Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? Turning them into crunchy, cheesy balls adds a delightful twist to this classic comfort food. It’s like a warm, crispy hug for your taste buds!

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long you’ll be in the kitchen prepping and cooking this dish.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering mashed potato balls:

Russet potatoes
Milk
Butter
Salt and pepper
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon (crumbled)
Green onions (finely chopped)
Breadcrumbs
Eggs (beaten)
Vegetable oil

Variations

Want to make this recipe your own? Try these ideas to tweak it!

Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and butter, and opt for dairy-free cheese.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free or almond-based breadcrumbs.
Extra Flavor Kick: Add herbs like parsley, paprika, or minced garlic to the filling for a flavor boost.
Vegetarian Twist: Skip the bacon and add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers.

Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes this recipe even simpler to pull off.

Large Pot for boiling potatoes
Potato Masher for smooth and lump-free mashed potatoes
Mixing Bowls to prepare fillings and coatings
Large Skillet or Deep Fryer for frying the potato balls
Paper Towels for draining excess oil

How to Make Mashed Potato Balls?

Making these little potato bites is as easy as pie. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a crispy, cheesy snack ready in no time!

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes 🥔

Peel the potatoes and chop them into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until they’re super soft and tender. Drain the water, then mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. This is your base for the balls, so make it as smooth as possible.

Step 2: Mix the Filling 🧀🥓

Grab a mixing bowl and combine shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. This trio of flavors will create the drool-worthy filling for your potato balls.

Step 3: Shape the Balls 👩‍🍳

Scoop out some mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm. Spoon a bit of the cheesy bacon filling into the center. Carefully fold the potatoes around the filling and shape it into a ball. Repeat until you’ve used up all the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Coat the Balls 🥚🍞

Roll each potato ball in beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs. This step ensures that your balls fry up golden brown with a delightfully crispy crust. Pro tip: Press the crumbs gently onto the balls for even coating!

Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection 🍳

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer. Fry the potato balls in small batches, turning them until all sides are golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy 🎉

Serve your mashed potato balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce–think sour cream, ranch, or spicy aioli. Then, dig in and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for a fluffy mash that holds together well for shaping.
Chill the Mixture: If your mashed potatoes seem too soft, pop them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Firm potatoes are easier to shape.
Frying Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F, to avoid greasy results. Use a thermometer if needed!

How to Serve Mashed Potato Balls?

Presentation matters! Here are some ideas to make those potato balls shine.

Dip it Right: Pair them with sauces like garlic aioli, marinara, or spicy honey mustard.
Add Freshness: Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley over the top for a pop of color.
Upgrade Your Platter: Serve alongside a colorful salad or roasted veggies for an elegant touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrients in these mashed potato balls. Keep in mind, values can vary based on ingredient choices.

Calories: ~200 per ball
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fat: 10 g

Make Ahead and Storage

These mashed potato balls are perfect for prepping ahead of time!

Refrigeration

Prepare the balls and store them (uncooked) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Fry them fresh right before serving for peak crispiness.

Freezing

You can also freeze unfried potato balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen or bake them in the oven.

How Long They Stay Fresh

Cooked mashed potato balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Mashed potato balls are irresistible little bites that bring comfort and joy to any table. Give this incredible recipe a try and see just how versatile, easy, and delicious they are. Happy cooking! 🎉

Check out this step-by-step video: