Name: Cheddar Bacon Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups mashed potatoes (chilled); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 1/3 cup cooked bacon (crumbled); 1/4 cup chives (chopped); 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Introduction

Potato balls are a delightful and crispy snack perfect for any occasion. Filled with cheese, bacon, and herbs, these golden bites offer a comforting and savory flavor that everyone will love.

The image shows a close-up of five round, golden-brown fried balls with a crispy, textured coating. They are placed in a deep white bowl lined with white parchment paper. Each ball is topped with small pieces of shredded white cheese and green chopped herbs, adding a touch of color contrast. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, and a pair of dark chopsticks rest on the edge of the bowl. There is a soft focus on the background, showing part of a white and red striped cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups mashed potatoes (chilled)
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

1/3 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
1/4 cup chives (chopped)

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs (beaten)
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture and shape it into balls.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Roll each potato ball first in the all-purpose flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko mixture.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potato balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Remove the fried potato balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for a vegetarian version.
Serve with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for added zest.

Make sure the mashed potatoes are well chilled to help the balls hold their shape while frying.

Storage

Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

There are eight round, golden-brown fried balls arranged in two rows inside a white paper-lined dark metal tray. Each ball has a crispy textured surface, with small white shavings and tiny pieces of green garnish scattered on top. A silver spoon rests inside the tray, partially under one ball. Next to the tray is a small white bowl with reddish crumbs inside. The tray sits on a white marbled surface, with part of a white plate and a gray cloth napkin visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the potato balls instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but will still be delicious.

Can I prepare potato balls ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble and coat the potato balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. Fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.