Description
Crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, these Cheesy Parmesan Potato Balls are the perfect appetizer for game day, family gatherings, or a weekend treat. Made with leftover potatoes, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a golden breadcrumb coating, they’re easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
For the mashed potatoes:
- 800 grams cooked potatoes (about 5–6 medium) (about 5 cups mashed)
- 70 grams Parmesan cheese (about ¾ cup grated)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the stuffing:
- 50 grams mozzarella cheese, (½ cup cubed)
For the coating:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch
- Breadcrumbs
For frying:
- Sunflower oil (fill the pan halfway)
For decorating:
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Peel, wash, and cut the cooked potatoes into even pieces. Mash them with Parmesan, butter, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
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Using a cookie or ice cream scoop, portion the mashed potatoes. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of each scoop, then cover with more mashed potato and shape into a smooth ball.
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Roll each ball first in cornstarch, then dip in the beaten egg, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
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Optional: Freeze the coated balls for a few minutes to help them hold their shape while frying.
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Heat sunflower oil in a pan, filling it halfway, and fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy.
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Transfer the fried balls onto paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
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Let mashed potatoes cool slightly before shaping.
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If the potatoes feel wet, add a tablespoon of cornstarch.
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Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, or pair with your favorite spicy dip.
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Use room-temperature mashed potatoes to make shaping easier.
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Double-coat with egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
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Fry in small batches so the oil stays hot and the balls crisp up perfectly.
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Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Experiment with spices in the mash or coating for extra flavor.