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Crispy potato balls are golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Made from mashed potatoes, they are seasoned, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection. The outside is crispy, while the inside stays soft and creamy. They can be stuffed with cheese, herbs, or meats for extra flavor. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for appetizers, party platters, or dipping in your favorite sauces. Whether baked or fried, they deliver the ultimate crispy and creamy contrast.
How to Make Crispy Potato Balls: Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes – Boil and mash potatoes until smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
- Add Fillings (Optional) – Mix in cheese, herbs, or cooked meat for extra flavor and texture. I like to use crispy bacon as the cooked meat.
- Add corn starch– Add corn starch to firm up the mashed potatoes and have they fry better.
- Fry Until Golden Brown – Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until crispy and golden on all sides.
- Drain and Serve – Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Key Ingredients for Crispy Potatoes and Why They Matter
- Potatoes – The base of the recipe, creating a soft and fluffy interior.
- Cornstarch – Helps bind the mashed potatoes and enhances crispiness.
- Crispy Bacon – Adds a smoky, savory crunch to every bite.
- Parmesan Cheese – Brings a rich, salty, umami flavor to the mixture.
- Salt & Pepper – Balances and enhances the natural flavors.
- Cooking Oil – Essential for deep frying to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Herbs & Spices – Garlic powder, paprika, or parsley add depth and aroma.
Best Potatoes for Crispy Potato Balls: Choosing the Right Type for Perfect Texture
For crispy potato balls, starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are the best choice. They create a fluffy interior and hold their shape well when fried. Waxy potatoes, like red or fingerling, have more moisture and can make the mixture too dense. While any potato can work, using the right type ensures the perfect balance of crispiness and creaminess. If using waxy potatoes, adding extra cornstarch can help improve structure and texture.
Crispy Potato Balls
Ingredients
- 3 yellow potatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp chopped paprika
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 3 tbsp corn starch
- ½ cup bacon bits
Instructions
- Peel your potatoes and cut them into cubes.3 yellow potatoes
- Cook in boiling hot water for 10-15 minutes or until fully tender.
- Mash them until smooth.
- Season with remaining seasonings, parsley, parmesan, cornstarch, and bacon bits. Mix well.1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 2 tbsp chopped paprika, ¼ cup grated parmesan, 3 tbsp corn starch, ½ cup bacon bits
- Roll the mashed potato mixture into your desired ball size. I like them about 1 inch in diameter.
- Fry at 350F for 5-8 minutes or until golden brown.
- Top with more parmesan, parsley, and bacon.
