Oh boy, am I excited to share this crispy and cheesy dish with you all! Introducing my all-time favorite snack: Crispy Potato Cheese Balls! Now, let me tell you, these little bites of heaven have been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. Thinking back, I can vividly recall gathering around the kitchen with my family, each one of us trying to sneak a taste as my mom pulled these golden goodies out of the hot oil. The smell – oh my goodness! It’s like a warm hug that wraps around you and insists you dive right in.
Whether it’s a game day snack, a party appetizer, or just a cozy evening in, these potato cheese balls are your ticket to culinary delight. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheeses, all wrapped up in a crunchy golden crust, is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about the crisp of the outside and the delicious, cheesy center that makes them so irresistible. Trust me; these will quickly become a favorite in your household too!
What’s in Crispy Potato Cheese Balls?
Potatoes: The star of the show! I recommend using starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for that fluffy mash.
Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar if you like a bit more kick! It gives a nice depth of flavor to each bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: This one melts beautifully and adds that gooey goodness we all crave. Fresh mozzarella is fantastic if you can find it!
Green Onions: These add a burst of freshness and a little color. Plus, they take the flavor up a notch!
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These are my secret flavor boosters. They add a warm, rounded taste without overpowering the cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning! A little pinch goes a long way.
Breadcrumbs: A must for that crispy exterior! I prefer seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps the breadcrumbs stick to the potato balls.
Eggs: They act as the glue that holds everything together during the breading process.
Oil: You need this for frying – I usually use vegetable oil for a neutral flavor, but feel free to experiment!
Is Crispy Potato Cheese Balls Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health. These crispy delights are indeed delicious, but like most fried foods, moderation is key.
Potatoes: They are a good source of vitamins C and B6, and when mashed, they provide energy, thanks to their carbohydrate content.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: While they’re delicious and rich in calcium, they are also high in fat and calories, so it’s best to enjoy these cheesy balls as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
Green Onions: These guys are low in calories and rich in antioxidants, so go ahead and add a bit more to your mixture if you’d like!
Just keep in mind, while they can be part of a balanced diet, these mouthwatering bites should be enjoyed alongside fresh salads or veggies to round out your meal. So yes, indulge, but do it smartly!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes (about 500g)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Oil for frying
This recipe serves about 4 people, depending on how hungry everyone is (or how many you sneak before serving!)
How to Make Crispy Potato Cheese Balls?
1. Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Once the potatoes have cooled down, peel them and mash them in a mixing bowl until smooth.
3. Add the grated cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Take small portions of the potato mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized balls. Set aside on a plate.
5. Set up a breading station: in one bowl, place the all-purpose flour; in another, the beaten eggs; and in a third bowl, the breadcrumbs.
6. Roll each potato ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs to ensure they are well covered.
7. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato cheese balls a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
8. Fry the balls until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
9. Optionally, sprinkle additional grated cheese over the hot balls before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Cheesy Tips and Variations!
– If you want to spice things up, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or even some cooked bacon into the potato mixture for an explosion of flavor!
– For a bit of an oriental twist, try adding some chopped cilantro and a dash of soy sauce to the mix. Serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping!
– If you’re feeling health-conscious, consider baking the potato balls in the oven at 400°F (200°C) instead of frying them. Just lightly brush them with oil before baking for that crispy texture.
I truly hope you try these Crispy Potato Cheese Balls. They are perfect for sharing (or not; I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself). When you make them, make sure to let me know how yours turn out! Happy cooking!
