Garlic Potato Balls Recipe
If you’re in search of a crowd-pleasing appetizer with irresistible flavor, crispy texture, and gooey, cheesy goodness, look no further than Garlic Potato Balls. Perfectly golden on the outside and creamy on the inside, these bite-sized delights are everything you want in a snack: easy to make, loaded with comforting flavors, and guaranteed to disappear fast once they hit the table. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a game-day nibble, or just want a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes, these Garlic Potato Balls bring joy and flavor to any occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple without skimping on flavor. Every ingredient works hard to create the perfect bite: crisp, cheesy, garlicky, and herby. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one deserves its spot in the lineup:
- Mashed Potatoes (4 cups): The star of the show, mashed potatoes provide that creamy interior and hold everything together once cooled.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Adds that melty, stringy cheese factor everyone loves in Garlic Potato Balls.
- Minced Garlic (2 cloves): Infuses every bite with a warm, aromatic punch and is absolutely essential for true garlic lovers.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Offers a salty, nutty undertone that balances out the gooey mozzarella.
- Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Brightens up the flavor and adds a touch of color and freshness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount to make every other flavor pop.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A little heat and earthiness for balance.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Forms the first layer of breading, helping the coating stick for that perfect crunch.
- Large Eggs (2, beaten): Acts as a glue to bind the breadcrumbs and flour layers together.
- Breadcrumbs (1 1/2 cups): The secret to that shattering, crispy shell on every Garlic Potato Ball.
- Vegetable Oil, for frying: Ensures even, golden cooking on all sides without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Potato Balls
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding your cooled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Parmesan, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until everything is beautifully combined. The mozzarella should be evenly distributed, and each scoop should smell deliciously garlicky already!
Step 2: Shape the Balls
With the filling ready, it’s time to form those iconic Garlic Potato Balls. Scoop out portions of about 1.5 inches and gently roll them between your palms until round. If the mixture feels sticky, a quick dab of water on your hands helps keep things smooth and tidy.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Organize three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and another filled with breadcrumbs. Working one at a time, roll each ball first in the flour to coat, then dip into the eggs so it’s nice and sticky, and finally cover it thoroughly in breadcrumbs for that signature crispy finish.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the breaded potato balls in batches, making sure they’re not crowded, and fry for 3 to 4 minutes each. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a deep golden brown and float to the top with a crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once all your Garlic Potato Balls are fried and still warm, plate them up and get ready to enjoy. They’re at their very best straight from the skillet, with a favorite dipping sauce on the side. Prepare for “just one more” syndrome!
How to Serve Garlic Potato Balls
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to add fresh flair and a little extra pop of flavor. Try a sprinkle of extra parsley for color, a dusting of Parmesan for that irresistible cheesy finish, or even a pinch of red chili flakes for added heat. Don’t be shy: a drizzle of garlic butter or a squeeze of lemon juice can also take your Garlic Potato Balls to new heights.
Side Dishes
Garlic Potato Balls are incredibly versatile as a starter or side. Pair them with a crisp green salad to balance their richness, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a cozy, comforting plate. They also shine as part of a snack platter with marinated olives, crudités, and dips like ranch, spicy ketchup, or marinara sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful presentation, arrange the Garlic Potato Balls on skewers for easy, party-friendly snacking. Create a “cheese fondue” station, letting everyone dip them into warm cheese sauce. Or, transform them into edible centerpieces by stacking in a pyramid, dotting with extra parsley and colorful picks for festive flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Potato Balls will keep their charm if stored correctly. Let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, still retaining much of that addictively crispy exterior.
Freezing
If you like to plan ahead, Garlic Potato Balls freeze beautifully. After breading (but before frying), arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to two months. Fry straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time for perfect results.
Reheating
For best crispiness, reheat leftover Garlic Potato Balls in a 375-degree Fahrenheit oven for 8 to 10 minutes until piping hot and crunchy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy. If you have an air fryer, a quick 3 to 4 minutes at high heat will do the trick!
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Garlic Potato Balls?
Absolutely! While homemade mashed potatoes offer the best flavor and texture, instant potatoes work in a pinch. Just make sure they’re thick and not too runny so the balls hold their shape nicely.
What dipping sauces go best with Garlic Potato Balls?
Classic choices include marinara, spicy ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or even a smoky chipotle mayo. The creamy, garlicky center plays well with both tangy and creamy dips—so get creative with your favorites!
How do I make them gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free versions. Potato starch and gluten-free panko both work perfectly to keep the outsides crispy and crunchy.
Can I bake Garlic Potato Balls instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter option, line them up on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through. They’ll still be deliciously golden, just with a slightly different texture.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the flavor?
Definitely—think of Garlic Potato Balls as a versatile base. Mix in cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, a bit of smoked paprika, or even jalapeños for a personalized twist your friends and family will love.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a snack that’s comforting, satisfying, and sure to make everyone smile, Garlic Potato Balls belong on your menu. Each bite is a delicious reminder of how simple ingredients can become something special. Go ahead—give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they disappear in record time!
Print
Garlic Potato Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 20 potato balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Potato Balls are a delightful appetizer or snack option that is crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Loaded with cheesy goodness and flavored with garlic and herbs, these fried potato balls are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes:
4 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cooled)
Cheese Mixture:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garlic:
2 cloves garlic, minced
Parmesan Cheese:
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parsley:
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Seasonings:
1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, beaten, 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
Oil:
vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls.
- Breading: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Fry the balls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a baked version, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Enhance flavor with bacon bits or green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 potato balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 7 grams
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
