Mashed Potato Balls (Crispy and Cheesy) – Easy Leftover Mashed Potato Recipe

There’s something magical about turning leftover food into a delicious, comforting treat that everyone will love. And that’s exactly what we’re doing with these crispy and cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. It’s the kind of recipe that takes those humble mashed potatoes from yesterday’s dinner and transforms them into golden, crunchy bites of pure joy. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun side dish, these Mashed Potato Balls are all about turning simple ingredients into something irresistibly good.

I remember the first time I made these. It was one of those lazy weekends where we had a big family dinner the night before, and I ended up with a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes. Not wanting to waste them, I decided to get creative. I mixed in some cheese, bacon bits, and fresh parsley, rolled them in breadcrumbs, and fried them to perfection. The result? An instant hit that everyone kept reaching for until the plate was empty. And I knew right then, this recipe was a keeper.

What makes these Mashed Potato Balls so special is the combination of textures and flavors. You get the creamy, cheesy interior with little bits of salty bacon, all wrapped in a crispy, golden crust. Plus, the parsley adds a touch of freshness that brightens up each bite. It’s comfort food, elevated.

Whether you’re looking for a fun party appetizer, a quick snack to satisfy your cravings, or a creative way to use up leftovers, these Mashed Potato Balls have got you covered. And the best part? They’re super easy to make. You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to nail this recipe. So, let’s dive in and bring some deliciousness to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about these Mashed Potato Balls, and I can’t wait to tell you all the reasons why you’ll be making them over and over again.

First of all, they are incredibly easy to make. If you have some leftover mashed potatoes and a few pantry staples, you’re pretty much halfway there. The process is simple, straightforward, and beginner-friendly, which makes this recipe perfect even if you’re not a seasoned cook.

Secondly, these Mashed Potato Balls are super versatile. You can make them exactly as the recipe suggests, or you can get creative and customize them to your liking. Want to add some spicy kick? Throw in some chopped jalapeños. Prefer them meat-free? Skip the bacon and toss in some sautéed onions or bell peppers instead. The possibilities are endless.

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is the amazing combination of textures and flavors. The exterior is crispy and golden, thanks to the breadcrumb coating, while the inside is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with deliciousness. The contrast between the crunchy outside and the soft, gooey center is pure perfection.

And let’s not forget that these Mashed Potato Balls are a great way to reduce food waste. Leftover mashed potatoes never looked so good! It’s a brilliant way to transform something basic into something absolutely delightful.

Whether you’re making these for a family gathering, a party, or just a cozy night in, everyone will be reaching for more. Plus, they’re perfectly portioned, making them an ideal finger food that both kids and adults will adore.

Health Benefits

Now, let’s be real. Mashed Potato Balls are not exactly health food. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. And guess what? They do have some nutritional perks worth mentioning.

Potatoes, the star ingredient here, are actually packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure. They also provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and a decent amount of dietary fiber, especially if you use mashed potatoes made from unpeeled potatoes.

Eggs, which act as a binder in this recipe, are also quite nutritious. They’re rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, eggs are an excellent source of choline, which is important for brain health and various bodily functions.

The addition of cheddar cheese provides a dose of calcium and protein. While cheese is high in fat, it also contains important nutrients that support bone health and provide energy.

Using parsley in this recipe adds a fresh touch while providing a good amount of vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It’s a small addition, but every bit of nutrition counts.

And let’s not overlook the fact that these Mashed Potato Balls can be adapted to suit different dietary needs. You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. You can also bake them instead of frying them to reduce the oil content, making them a slightly healthier option.

While these little potato bites are definitely a treat, you can feel good knowing that they’re made from real, wholesome ingredients. And hey, life is all about balance, right?

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 15-30 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes per batch
Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes about 20-25 Mashed Potato Balls, depending on how big you roll them.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 1 Mashed Potato Ball):

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 7 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Calcium: 40 mg

These nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Ingredients List

• 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes (Use well-seasoned potatoes for maximum flavor)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (Acts as a binder to hold everything together)
• 1/4 cup real beef or turkey bacon bits (For a delicious smoky, salty flavor)
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Gives that creamy, cheesy goodness)
• 2 tablespoons Italian parsley leaves, chopped (Adds freshness and color)
• 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs (For a crispy, golden coating)
• Oil (for deep frying – Canola or vegetable oil works best)

This ingredient list is simple yet loaded with flavor. And the best part? You probably already have most of these items in your kitchen.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• Place the cold mashed potatoes in a large bowl. Let them stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes mixing easier.

Mix the Ingredients

• Add the beaten egg, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley to the mashed potatoes.
• Mix everything well until evenly combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled.

Form the Balls

• Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
• Roll each ball in the bread crumbs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.

Chill the Balls

• Arrange the breaded potato balls on a plate or baking sheet.
• Refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. This step helps them firm up, so they don’t fall apart during frying.

Fry the Potato Balls

• Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet to 375°F (190°C).
• Fry the potato balls in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the skillet.
• Cook for about 2-3 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve

• Serve immediately for maximum crispiness. Enjoy them hot and gooey!

How to Serve

These Mashed Potato Balls are so good, you’ll want to serve them with everything. Here are some great ideas:

• As an appetizer or party snack with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, garlic aioli, sour cream, or marinara sauce.
• As a delicious side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty soup.
• On top of a fresh salad for a fun, crispy addition.
• As part of a breakfast platter with eggs and turkey bacon.

The options are endless. No matter how you serve them, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing these Mashed Potato Balls with the right dishes and drinks can elevate your dining experience:

• Main Dishes: Serve with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or steak for a hearty meal.
• Salads: A simple green salad or coleslaw makes a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy potato balls.
• Breakfast Pairing: Serve with eggs, turkey sausage, and fresh fruit for a satisfying brunch.
• Drinks: These pair well with iced tea, fresh lemonade, or even a creamy milkshake for a playful twist.
• Dips: Try them with a cheesy dipping sauce or a spicy Sriracha mayo for extra flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the fried potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy and heated through.
• You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat if you prefer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the balls before frying can cause them to fall apart.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many at once will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy balls.
• Using Watery Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are firm and not overly creamy.
• Over-frying: Keep an eye on the frying time to avoid burning.
• Not Using Enough Breadcrumbs: Ensure each ball is well-coated for the perfect crunch.

Pro Tips

• Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: This helps them hold their shape better during frying.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Simply swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Baking Option: If you prefer not to fry, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Add Herbs and Spices: Experiment with flavors like chives, paprika, or garlic powder for extra taste.
• Test Before Frying: Fry one ball first to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these mashed potato balls without frying them?
Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare them up to the chilling stage and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use panko, crushed cornflakes, or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but make sure they’re thick and not too creamy. You may need to add extra breadcrumbs for structure.

Why are my mashed potato balls falling apart?
They may not be cold enough or lack proper binding. Make sure to chill them before frying and consider adding more egg if needed.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There you have it! These Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy, cheesy delight that you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a comforting snack, or a side dish, they’re bound to impress everyone.

What’s even better is that they’re so easy to customize. Swap the cheese, change the herbs, or even add some spicy heat if you’re in the mood. The possibilities are endless, and you’re the chef of your own delicious creation.

Now, it’s your turn to try these tasty bites. Head to your kitchen, grab those leftover mashed potatoes, and get rolling! Don’t forget to share your experience. Snap a photo, tag me on social media, or drop a comment below to let me know how they turned out.

Ready to enjoy some crispy, cheesy goodness? Let’s make those mashed potato balls a reality!

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