Hello Everyone! Welcome to SasVibe. If you’re looking for a delightful and savory appetizer or snack, smashed potato cheeseballs are the perfect choice. These crispy, cheesy balls of goodness are easy to make and sure to please everyone at your next gathering. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through the process.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Oil for frying
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into large chunks and place them in a pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth. Ensure there are no large lumps.
Step 2: Mix in the Cheese and Seasonings
- Add Cheese and Sour Cream: To the mashed potatoes, add the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. These ingredients will add a rich, creamy texture to the mixture.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Form the Cheeseballs
- Shape the Balls: Take a small portion of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. You should get around 20-24 balls, depending on the size.
Step 4: Coat the Cheeseballs
- Prepare the Coating Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
- Coat the Balls: Roll each potato ball in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the ball into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. Repeat with all the balls.
Step 5: Fry the Cheeseballs
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough oil to cover the cheeseballs over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Until Golden: Carefully place the coated cheeseballs into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain the Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried cheeseballs from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the fried cheeseballs to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseballs
- Consistency: Make sure the potato mixture is not too wet. If it feels too sticky, you can add a bit more flour to help bind it together.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the cheeseballs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Conclusion
Crispy smashed potato cheeseballs are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the crispy crunch of a fried coating. This recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and eating these scrumptious bites!
