Name: Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 large egg; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are crispy on the outside and soft, flavorful on the inside. These bite-sized treats combine creamy mashed potatoes with savory garlic and nutty Parmesan, making them perfect for snacking or entertaining.

The image shows a white bowl lined with brown parchment paper, filled with about ten golden brown fried balls that look crispy on the outside. Each ball is sprinkled lightly with grated white cheese and finely chopped green herbs, giving a fresh contrast to the crispy texture. Next to the balls inside the bowl is a small white cup filled with a creamy, off-white dipping sauce topped with a few green herbs. The overall look is warm and inviting, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, 1 egg, salt, black pepper, and parsley if using. Mix well until evenly blended.
Step 2: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped.
Step 3: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
Step 5: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Fry the potato balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Step 7: Remove the fried potato balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 8: Arrange on a serving platter, garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a little grated mozzarella inside each ball before coating.
Use seasoned breadcrumbs for a more robust taste without adding extra spices.
If you want a baked option, place the coated balls on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Storage

Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

A black bowl is filled with golden brown small round potatoes, cooked until crispy on the outside and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and a generous layer of grated white cheese on top. The bowl is lined with light brown baking paper. The potatoes show spots of darker crispy edges, giving a crunchy texture, while the cheese adds a crumbly, soft contrast. The background is a white marbled surface, adding a clean and fresh look to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work well as long as they are cooled. Avoid using mashed potatoes with too much liquid for best results.

What is the best way to make sure the potato balls don’t fall apart when frying?

Make sure the potato mixture is well combined and firm enough to hold its shape. Chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping can help with firmness. Also, coating thoroughly with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs creates a sturdy crust.