Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are a delightful snack or appetizer featuring a golden, crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center. These delicious bites combine creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheese, offering a satisfying contrast of textures. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and cheesy – A perfect combination of a crunchy coating and a melted cheese center.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
- Great for any occasion – Serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Customizable – Use different cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.
- Kid-friendly – A fun and tasty way to enjoy potatoes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold)
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare the potatoes – Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then mash them until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Allow them to cool.
- Form the balls – Take a small portion of mashed potatoes, flatten it, and place a cheese cube in the center. Roll into a ball, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
- Coat the potato balls – Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs for a crispy outer layer.
- Heat the oil – In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry until golden – Carefully place the coated potato balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot – Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey inside.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 people
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.
- Herb-infused – Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for extra flavor.
- Different cheese options – Try gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese for a unique taste.
- Baked alternative – Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Air fryer option – Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen.
- Reheating – Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
FAQs
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying?
Make sure the mashed potatoes completely cover the cheese, sealing any gaps. Chilling the potato balls before frying also helps keep them intact.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but fresh mashed potatoes provide better texture and flavor. If using instant, make sure they are thick enough to hold their shape.
What’s the best cheese for stuffing?
Mozzarella gives a great stretch, while cheddar provides a sharp flavor. You can experiment with different cheeses based on preference.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balls, coat them, and refrigerate for up to a day before frying. Alternatively, freeze them for longer storage.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, for best results.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free bread crumbs.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Double-coat the potato balls by dipping them in the egg and bread crumbs twice before frying.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.
What can I serve with these potato balls?
They pair well with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.
How do I keep them warm for a party?
Place them on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (200°F/95°C) until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that combines a crispy outer layer with a gooey cheese center. They are easy to customize, can be made ahead of time, and work for any occasion. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these potato balls are sure to be a hit.
Print
These Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside! Made with creamy mashed potatoes, stuffed with melted cheese, and fried to golden perfection, they’re the ultimate appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 potato balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg (for coating)
- Oil for frying
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Mix mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Form balls: Take a small amount of potato mixture, place cheese in the center, and shape into a ball.
- Coat: Roll in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.