Name: Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold from fridge, 1-3 days old); ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, packed; ¼ tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp chopped chives or scallions; ⅛ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; ¼–⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg, beaten; ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs; Oil for frying (avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil); Sour cream for dipping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 14 reviews

If you have leftover mashed potatoes in your fridge, wait until you try this irresistible Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe! Imagine crispy, golden-on-the-outside little balls bursting with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes on the inside. These golden bites transform simple leftovers into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that everyone will beg you to make again. The mix of sharp cheddar, a hint of garlic, and fresh chives elevates these fried mashed potato balls from ordinary to absolutely crave-worthy in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl shows three main layers: soft white mashed potatoes, a large pile of shredded orange cheddar cheese in the middle, and chopped green onions scattered on top and around the cheese. A gold spoon is partially sunk into the mashed potatoes on the right side of the bowl, ready to mix the ingredients. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that you probably already have on hand, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy centers and crunchy exteriors. From sharp cheddar adding bold flavor to panko breadcrumbs providing that unbeatable crispness, every component is essential.

Leftover mashed potatoes (1 ½ cups): The base of the recipe that’s creamy and full of comfort.
Sharp cheddar cheese (½ cup, packed): Adds a rich, tangy cheesiness that melts beautifully inside.
Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Provides a gentle depth of flavor without overpowering.
Chopped chives or scallions (1 tablespoon): Brings a fresh, mild oniony brightness to the mix.
Salt and pepper (⅛ tsp each): Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
Flour (¼ to ⅓ cup): Helps the coating stick to the potato balls for that perfect crust.
Large egg (1): Binds the coating ingredients together and helps the panko adhere.
Panko breadcrumbs (¾ cup): Creates a light, extra-crispy golden shell.
Oil for frying: Use avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil for frying to a perfect crunch.
Optional sour cream: A creamy dip that pairs perfectly with the crispy potato balls.

How to Make Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start with cold, leftover mashed potatoes straight from the fridge, as they hold together better when shaping. In a medium bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and garlic powder. Season everything lightly with salt and pepper, then stir gently until all the ingredients are well combined and the cheddar is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 2: Scoop into Balls

Using a small cookie scoop or measuring spoons, portion the mixture into small balls no larger than one inch in diameter for perfect frying. Roll the scooped mixture between your palms to form smooth, compact balls. If the mixture feels too soft or sticky, chilling the balls in the fridge for 10 to 20 minutes helps them firm up, ensuring they hold their shape when fried.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each potato ball first in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally roll in panko breadcrumbs until well covered. This triple coating guarantees those unbeatable crispy and golden fried balls.

Step 4: Fry the Mashed Potato Balls

Heat about two to three inches of oil in a small pot or deep fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add three to four potato balls at a time to avoid overcrowding. Stir gently at the beginning to prevent sticking and fry for two to three minutes until the balls turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Repeat until all the balls are fried to perfection.

How to Serve Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

The image shows seven round, golden-brown fried balls with a rough, crunchy texture on a brown baking tray placed on a white marbled surface. One fried ball is broken open, revealing a soft inner layer of white mashed potato mixed with small bits of green herbs and a melted yellow cheese layer in the center. To the right, part of a small white bowl with smooth white dipping sauce is visible. Some small crumbs are scattered on the tray around the fried balls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh chives or a little shredded cheddar on top adds color and a pop of flavor to your cheesy fried mashed potato balls. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also give a subtle smoky note and a bright color contrast.

Side Dishes

These potato balls shine as an appetizer or snack, but pairing them with a cool, creamy dip like sour cream or ranch dressing makes them even more addictive. They also complement hearty soups, fresh salads, or grilled meats beautifully when served alongside as a crunchy side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, arrange the potato balls around a bowl of spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy marinara sauce for dipping. You can also skewer two or three on toothpicks for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres that are perfect for entertaining and easy to grab.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, place the cooled potato balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They may lose some crispiness but will still taste delicious reheated.

Freezing

This Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe freezes wonderfully. To freeze, place the raw coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.

Reheating

To bring back that irresistible crunch and melty center, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftover?

While fresh mashed potatoes can work, using leftover cold mashed potatoes is best because they’re firmer and less likely to fall apart when shaping and frying.

What kind of cheese works best for these potato balls?

Sharp cheddar is ideal because of its strong flavor and excellent melting quality, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for different tastes.

Is it possible to bake instead of fry the potato balls?

Yes, you can bake them on a greased baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll be crunchy but may not have quite the same golden crisp as frying.

What dips go well with Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls?

Sour cream, ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy aioli are fantastic dips that complement the creamy, cheesy center perfectly.

Can I make these potato balls gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the coating crispy while accommodating dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe. It’s a brilliant way to transform simple leftovers into a golden, cheesy, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something special, these potato balls deliver joyful bites every time. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorite snacks to share with friends and family.