Description
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden-brown mashed potato balls that make a perfect snack or appetizer. These flavorful bites combine creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh scallions, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, fried to perfection and served with tangy cranberry sauce or savory gravy for dipping.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (See Notes)
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Breading and Frying
- 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Serving
- Leftover cranberry sauce or gravy, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly stir together the leftover mashed potatoes, chopped scallions, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, and a pinch of salt and pepper until everything is well combined and the mixture is cohesive.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Place the seasoned breadcrumbs in a separate large bowl for breading the potato balls.
- Form and Bread the Balls: Scoop about 3 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a neat ball. Then, roll the ball in the breadcrumbs to coat it evenly. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture, ensuring each ball is well coated in breadcrumbs.
- Heat the Oil: Line a baking sheet with paper towels for draining. Pour vegetable oil into a large heavy-bottomed stockpot, and heat it over medium heat. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and heat the oil to 360°F (182°C).
- Fry the Potato Balls: Carefully add a few of the breaded mashed potato balls to the hot oil. Fry them, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Season: Using a slotted spoon or colander, transfer the fried potato balls onto the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Immediately season them with salt while still hot.
- Repeat Frying Batches: Continue frying the remaining potato balls in batches, ensuring the oil temperature returns to 360°F between batches for consistent results.
- Serve: Serve the golden mashed potato balls hot, accompanied by leftover cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping, enhancing their flavor with a delicious contrast.
Notes
- The texture of leftover mashed potatoes can vary. If your mashed potatoes are too thin or not holding together well, mix in a small amount of all-purpose flour until the mixture is cohesive enough to shape into balls.
- Using seasoned breadcrumbs adds extra flavor, but plain breadcrumbs can be used with added salt and seasoning if preferred.
- Maintain the frying oil temperature to ensure the potato balls crisp properly without absorbing excess oil.
- These mashed potato balls are best served immediately for optimal crispiness.
