Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

These Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with all the delicious flavors of a loaded baked potato—cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions. These little bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, and they’re sure to impress anyone at your next gathering. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for added convenience!

Why You’ll Love These Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

• Crispy and Golden: The breadcrumb coating gives these potato balls a crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling.
• Loaded with Flavor: They’re packed with all your favorite baked potato toppings—cheese, bacon, and green onions.
• Perfect for Parties: These make great finger food for parties, holidays, or family gatherings.
• Versatile: You can enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish to your favorite main course.

Ingredients for Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made ahead of time, cold)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or ice cream scoop
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Paper towels (for draining)
• Large plate or tray for setting the potato balls

How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Form the Balls

• Using your hands or a spoon, scoop a generous portion of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Step 3: Coat the Potato Balls

• Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
• Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 4: Fry the Potato Balls

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the potato balls halfway.
• Carefully drop the coated potato balls into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Fry the potato balls for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish the potato balls with extra chopped green onions, and serve hot with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions Serve these Loaded Mashed Potato Balls as an appetizer at a party, as a side dish to a main course like steak or grilled chicken, or simply enjoy them as a snack. They pair perfectly with a tangy dipping sauce such as ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo.

Tips for the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Balls

• Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes hold together better and are easier to work with when forming the balls.
• Don’t Overfill the Balls: Be careful not to overstuff the mashed potato mixture. A little cheese and bacon inside goes a long way!
• Test Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) to avoid soggy potato balls. If the oil is too cool, the balls will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the potato balls ahead of time, freeze them on a tray, and then fry them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to serve. Just fry them a little longer.

Storage Instructions Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying? A: Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the potato balls on a greased baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Q2: Can I make these without bacon? A: Absolutely! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version, or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a different protein, like shredded chicken.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes! You can make the potato balls ahead of time, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then store them in a freezer-safe container. Fry them straight from frozen when you’re ready to serve.

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Conclusion: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible! These Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, with their customizable filling, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (per serving, 2 balls)
Calories: 250
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites of heaven—the perfect comfort food treat!

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