Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Introduction

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food snack—golden and crunchy on the outside with a creamy, flavorful potato filling on the inside. Infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, these bite-sized delights are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a satisfying side dish.

The first time I made these, they disappeared faster than I could set them on the table. The combination of the crispy exterior and the cheesy, garlicky potato center is downright addictive. They’re so versatile, too—you can serve them with marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for dipping, but they’re just as delicious on their own.

What makes these potato balls even better is how simple they are to prepare. With basic pantry staples and a few steps, you can create a dish that feels both indulgent and homemade. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are a guaranteed hit!

Perfect for:

• Parties and gatherings
• Game-day snacks
• Family dinners
• Potluck contributions
• Potato lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Here’s why Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Crispy and Golden Exterior: The panko coating ensures a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
• Cheesy and Flavorful: Parmesan cheese and garlic take these potato balls to the next level of savory goodness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and fun to prepare, especially if you have leftover mashed potatoes on hand.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors by adding different herbs, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.
• Perfectly Bite-Sized: These potato balls are the ideal finger food for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 20 potato balls (approximately)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 80-100 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 3g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or leftover)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 large egg (for the filling)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional filling)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (for coating)
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Ingredient Highlights

• Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes work best for shaping and maintaining the structure of the potato balls.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor to both the filling and coating.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor, making these potato balls irresistible.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Create the crispy outer layer that gives these potato balls their signature crunch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Optional but adds a gooey, cheesy surprise in the center of each ball.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley (if using), and 1 large egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Add Mozzarella (Optional): If you want a cheesy center, take a small cube of mozzarella and set it aside for filling later.

Shape the Potato Balls:

3. Form the Balls: Take a tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. If using mozzarella, flatten the potato mixture slightly, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and seal it completely before rolling into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Coat the Potato Balls:

4. Prepare the Coating Station: Set up three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
   • Bowl 2: Lightly beaten eggs.
   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. Coat the Balls: Roll each potato ball in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it in the panko mixture. Make sure each ball is evenly coated.

Fry the Potato Balls:

6. Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the Balls: Fry the potato balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
8. Drain and Cool: Use a slotted spoon to remove the potato balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are best served fresh and hot. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara, garlic aioli, ranch, or sour cream for dipping.
• As a Side Dish: Pair these potato balls with grilled meats, salads, or soups for a complete meal.
• As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy party snacking.
• With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan for a touch of elegance.

Additional Tips for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Here are some tips to ensure your Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls turn out perfectly every time:

• Chill the Mixture: If the potato mixture is too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling.
• Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform-sized balls that cook evenly.
• Test the Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the balls may burn; too cold, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
• Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier version, bake the potato balls at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray them with cooking oil before baking for extra crispiness.
• Make Ahead: You can shape and coat the potato balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

Recipe Variations for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Here are 10 variations to try for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls:

1. Cheddar and Chive Potato Balls: Mix shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the potato mixture.
2. Spicy Potato Balls: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Bacon Potato Balls: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
4. Herbed Potato Balls: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to the mixture.
5. Sweet Potato Balls: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
6. Truffle Potato Balls: Drizzle with truffle oil or mix truffle paste into the mashed potatoes for a gourmet upgrade.
7. Stuffed Jalapeño Potato Balls: Add a slice of pickled jalapeño in the center for a spicy surprise.
8. Vegetarian Potato Balls: Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots for added nutrients.
9. Vegan Potato Balls: Use plant-based Parmesan, almond milk, and a flax egg for a vegan version.
10. Loaded Potato Balls: Include sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions in the filling for a loaded potato taste.

Freezing and Storage for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

• Freezing: Freeze uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Special Equipment for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

Here are some special tools to make preparing your Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls easier:

• Deep Fry Thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
• Cookie Scoop: Helps create uniform-sized balls for even cooking.
• Slotted Spoon: Useful for removing the potato balls from the hot oil.
• Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
• Baking Sheet: For freezing or baking the potato balls.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
   Yes, but make sure the texture is thick and not too watery to shape into balls.
2. Can I air fry the potato balls?
   Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
3. How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
   Ensure the mixture is cold and firm before shaping. Don’t skip the flour and egg coating step, as it helps bind the potato balls.
4. Can I add other cheeses?
   Absolutely! Cheddar, Gouda, or Gruyère are excellent options to enhance the flavor.
5. How do I make these gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as substitutes.

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Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are a delightful bite-sized treat that combines creamy mashed potatoes with the bold flavors of parmesan and garlic, all encased in a golden, crunchy exterior. Whether you’re looking for the perfect party appetizer, a comforting snack, or a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a winner.

These potato balls are as fun to make as they are to eat, making them a great choice for everything from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. Serve them fresh and hot, pair them with your favorite dips, and watch them disappear in no time!

I’d love to see how your Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!