Description
These Garlic Potato Balls are a crispy, cheesy appetizer or side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Made from mashed potatoes mixed with garlic, cheese, parsley, and optional bacon, then fried to golden perfection. They’re perfect for parties or a comforting snack anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Ball Mixture
- 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or other preferred spices
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
For Frying
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil), enough to submerge potato balls
Instructions
- Prepare the potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the boiled and mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and optional bacon bits. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the balls: Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Place them on a plate or tray ready for frying.
- Heat oil for frying: Pour enough oil into a deep pan or skillet to submerge the potato balls and heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the potato balls: Carefully place a few potato balls into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried potato balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Repeat and serve: Continue frying the remaining potato balls in batches. Once all are cooked, serve them warm, garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- You can use any cheese that melts well; cheddar and mozzarella are great choices.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste for more heat or flavor.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior without soaking oil inside.
- These can be made ahead and reheated in an oven for crispiness.
- Bacon is optional but adds great flavor—omit for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
