Name: Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold from fridge from previous 1-3 days); ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (packed); ¼ tsp garlic powder; 1 TBSP chopped chives or scallions; ⅛ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; ¼-⅓ cup flour; 1 large egg; ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs; Oil for frying (avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil); Sour cream for dipping

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

If you’re wondering how to transform simple leftover mashed potatoes into a mouthwatering bite-sized treat, look no further than this Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe. These crispy, golden orbs are bursting with sharp cheddar cheese, fragrant chives, and the perfect balance of seasoning, making them a definite crowd-pleaser whether served as an appetizer or a snack. With a crunchy exterior hiding a soft, cheesy center, these fried mashed potato balls bring leftover magic to your table in a way that’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds three main layers: fluffy white mashed potatoes forming the base, a layer of bright orange shredded cheddar cheese piled in the center, and small, vibrant green chopped scallions sprinkled on top and around the cheese. A long gold spoon rests on the right side, scooping into the mashed potatoes. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun—and success—when making this recipe. Each element plays an essential role, from creating that creamy inside to the crispy outside that makes every bite irresistible.

1 ½ cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold from fridge): Using cold mashed potatoes helps the balls hold their shape and develop a perfect texture when fried.
½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (packed): This adds a rich, tangy melty center that’s key to making these potato balls cheesy and delicious.
¼ tsp garlic powder: Just a touch for added warmth and flavor depth without overpowering the cheddar’s sharpness.
1 TBSP chopped chives or scallions: They bring a delicate oniony freshness and a pop of color.
⅛ tsp salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance every flavor without stealing the spotlight.
¼-⅓ cup flour: This coats the potato balls and helps the egg and panko stick for that crispy crust.
1 large egg: Acts as the binding agent and anchors the crispy panko outer layer.
¾ cup panko: Provides a light, airy crunch that’s so much better than regular breadcrumbs.
Oil for frying (avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil): A neutral oil with a high smoke point to get that perfect golden-brown fry without burning.
Optional sour cream for dipping: Adds a cool, creamy tang to complement the hot, crispy potato balls.

How to Make Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by mixing your cold leftover mashed potatoes with the sharp cheddar, chopped chives, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper—every bit brings out the flavors wonderfully. Use a large spoon to stir everything well until it’s evenly combined. The cold potatoes keep the mixture firm, making them easier to handle in the next steps.

Step 2: Scoop into Balls

Grab a small cookie scoop or simply use teaspoons to portion out the cheesy potato mixture into neat little balls about 1 inch in diameter. Rolling them between your hands helps form nice round shapes. If they feel too soft or won’t hold their form, pop them in the fridge for 10 to 20 minutes to let them firm up—this little chill step makes frying easier and cleaner.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

Set up three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with a beaten egg, and one filled with lovely panko breadcrumbs. The flour coats the balls first, helping the egg stick, and the panko breadcrumbs are the final crunchy shell. Dip each ball sequentially in flour, then egg, then panko, making sure they’re fully coated so that amazing crispy crust forms during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Mashed Potato Balls

Heat 2 to 3 inches of oil in a small pot or deep pan to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once hot, gently lower 3 or 4 battered potato balls at a time into the oil using a slotted spoon. Stir a little at first to keep them from sticking together, then let them fry undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the rest and get ready to enjoy some serious comfort food bliss.

How to Serve Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

The image shows seven small, round, golden-brown fried balls with a crispy texture on a baking tray with a white marbled surface. One ball is split open in the center, revealing a smooth, creamy yellow cheese layer underneath the crunchy outer layer, mixed with soft white filling and small green bits. Some crumbs are scattered around the balls. On the right edge, there is a white bowl filled with a thick white sauce. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate your cheesy fried mashed potato balls from tasty to spectacular. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions right on top for a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor. A little flaky sea salt adds a luxurious finishing touch and extra crunch for salty lovers.

Side Dishes

These golden bites are versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve alongside a crisp garden salad to balance the richness or a tangy slaw for refreshing contrast. If you’re after cozy vibes, a bowl of warm tomato soup makes the ultimate companion to dip and dunk your cheese-filled friends.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not make your Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe party-ready? Arrange them on a wooden platter with small bowls of dips like sour cream, spicy aioli, or ketchup. You can also skewer a few together for fun finger-food kebabs—perfect for sharing and impressing guests with your delicious, cheesy creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some leftover fried cheesy mashed potato balls, no worries—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crunch will soften a bit, but reheating them properly will bring back much of that delightful texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the potato balls either before or after frying. To freeze raw, coat and arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. If freezing cooked ones, let them cool completely, then freeze the same way. This means you’ll always have a quick, cheesy snack ready whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, skip the microwave to avoid soggy outsides. Instead, reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until crispy and heated through, about 10–15 minutes. This method revives that lovely crunch, making your leftover cheesy fried mashed potato balls taste freshly made.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without leftover mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! You can make fresh mashed potatoes and chill them thoroughly before starting. Cold potatoes hold their shape much better for frying, so be sure they’re well chilled for the best results.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and meltability, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for gooey stretch or pepper jack for a little spicy kick. Just keep in mind how the flavor complements the mashed potatoes.

Can I bake the mashed potato balls instead of frying?

You can! Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until golden can be a healthier alternative, but frying gives the crispiest and most satisfying texture that this Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is known for.

What’s the best oil to use for frying?

Choose oils with a high smoke point like avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil. These oils handle high heat well, produce a nice crisp crust, and won’t impart unwanted flavors.

How do I keep the balls from falling apart while frying?

Chilling the formed potato balls before frying is crucial. The cold helps them firm up so they don’t disintegrate in the hot oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain consistent oil temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Fried Mashed Potato Balls Recipe is truly a humble dish turned extraordinary with just a few simple ingredients and some love. It’s perfect for using up leftovers, impressing friends, or just indulging yourself with a crispy, gooey snack that feels like a warm hug. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy comfort food moments.