Potato Cheese Balls: A Delightful Snack in Under an Hour
Short introduction
Potato cheese balls are a crunchy and cheesy treat that makes for a perfect appetizer or snack. Made from mashed potatoes, these balls are filled with gooey cheese and then deep-fried until golden brown. They are easy to prepare and are sure to impress everyone, making them ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Why you’ll love it
These potato cheese balls are not just delicious but also versatile. They provide a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy center that will make your taste buds dance. They can be customized with different cheeses and served with a variety of dips. Plus, they are a crowd-pleaser, making them a great choice for kids and adults alike. Enjoy them as an after-school snack, a game day treat, or at any festive occasion!
Ingredients
For the potato balls:
- 450 g (1 pound) raw and unpeeled red potatoes or other types of potatoes
- 100 g (3.5 oz) Mozzarella cheese (or any cheese like Cheddar)
- 50 g (1/2 cup) Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese, grated
- Black pepper
- Salt
For the breading:
- 3 eggs
- 50 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
- 200 g (2 cups) homemade breadcrumbs
- 5 g (1 tsp) paprika
Substitutions & key variations
- Potatoes: You can use any type of potatoes, but waxy varieties like red or Yukon gold give the best texture.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda to adjust the flavor.
- Vegetarian option: You can make these balls vegan by using plant-based cheese and an egg replacement for breading (like a mixture of flour and water).
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps in achieving a fluffier texture. After soaking, cut the potatoes into big chunks and boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
While the potatoes are boiling, slice the Mozzarella cheese into small cubes (about 2 inches) and place them on a paper towel to soak up excess moisture.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading
In three separate bowls, prepare the breading: place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in the third. Mix the breadcrumbs with salt, black pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and place them in a heatproof bowl. While still hot, push them through a potato ricer or mash them with a potato masher until smooth. Grate the Parmesan cheese and mix it into the warm mashed potatoes. Season with black pepper and salt.
Step 5: Form the Balls
Using a tablespoon, scoop equal portions of the potato mixture and shape them into balls (about 16 g or 0.5 oz each). Make a hole in the center of each ball and insert a cube of Mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Coat the Balls
Coat each potato ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, dip into the eggs and breadcrumbs once more.
Step 7: Fry the Balls
Place the breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking tray and refrigerate them until you are ready to fry. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Deep fry the potato balls until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Be careful not to over-fry, as the cheese may ooze out.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
After frying, drain the balls on paper towels and season with salt. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Success tips
- Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy potato balls. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Texture: Don’t over-mash the potatoes; you want them fluffy, not gummy.
- Common mistakes: Ensure the cheese is well-absorbed; wet cheese can make the balls fall apart during frying.
How to serve
Serve potato cheese balls hot and crispy, accompanied by a tasty dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli. They are perfect for a snack table or at a potluck!
Storage & reheating
Store any leftover potato cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake potato cheese balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden, but they may not be as crispy as fried.
2. Can I freeze potato cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Just shape the balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a bag.
3. What dipping sauces work best?
Any sauce you love! Marinara, ranch dressing, and garlic aioli are all great choices.
4. How can I make them spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the potato mixture for some heat.
5. Can I prepare the mixture a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and refrigerate it, but it’s best to shape and fry them fresh for the best texture.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
These potato cheese balls are a delightful treat that can fit into various meal plans. The recipe can be adjusted to be lower in calories by using less cheese or baking instead of frying.
Conclusion
Potato cheese balls are an easy and delicious way to create a mouthwatering snack that everyone will love. With their cheesy centers and crispy exteriors, they’re an ideal addition to any gathering. Try making your batch today and enjoy the delightful flavors they offer!