Golden, crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside – these potato balls are the ultimate snack or appetizer.
Whether you’re making them for a party, an evening tea-time treat, or a family gathering, these stuffed potato balls always disappear within minutes. The best part? They’re simple to make with basic ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients (for 12–15 balls)
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2 cups mashed potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes, boiled & mashed)
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1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
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½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 egg (or 2 tablespoons milk for egg-free version)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
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Salt to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like parsley, coriander, or spring onion)
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Oil for deep frying (or shallow fry/air-fry as you prefer)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
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Boil 4 medium potatoes until fork-tender.
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Peel and mash them while still warm to remove lumps.
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Spread them on a plate for 5–10 minutes to release excess steam (this keeps them firm, not sticky).
2. Season the Potato Mix
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In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, half the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, chili flakes, herbs, and salt.
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Mix until everything comes together into a soft dough-like texture.
3. Shape the Balls
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Take a small portion of potato mixture (about 2 tablespoons).
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Flatten it into your palm and place a cube or pinch of shredded cheese in the center.
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Carefully roll it into a smooth ball, sealing the cheese inside.
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Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
4. Coat the Balls
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In one small bowl, beat the egg (or use milk for a lighter coating).
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Place breadcrumbs in another bowl.
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Dip each potato ball into the egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
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For extra crispiness, repeat the process for a double coating.
5. Fry or Bake
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Deep Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry 3–4 balls at a time until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes).
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Shallow Fry: Heat 3–4 tablespoons of oil in a pan and turn the balls gently until crispy on all sides.
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Air Fry: Brush with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
6. Serve Hot
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Drain on paper towels.
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Serve immediately while the cheese inside is gooey and melty.
Tips for Success
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Dry Potatoes → Too much moisture makes the balls fall apart. Always let boiled potatoes steam-dry before mashing.
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Seal Well → Close the potato dough tightly around the cheese to prevent leaks while frying.
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Breadcrumb Choice → Panko breadcrumbs make the crispiest coating, but regular ones work too.
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Cheese Options → Mozzarella gives a gooey stretch, cheddar gives a sharp flavor, and pepper jack adds spice.
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Make Ahead → Shape and coat the balls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
Variations
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Spicy Potato Balls → Add chopped jalapeños or chili powder to the mix.
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Veggie Boost → Mix in finely grated carrots, peas, or spinach with the potatoes.
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Stuffing Upgrade → Try stuffing with a mix of cheese + cooked chicken, minced beef, or sautéed mushrooms.
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Herbed Balls → Add rosemary, thyme, or dill for a flavor twist.
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Mini Party Bites → Make them smaller, bite-sized, and serve with toothpicks as party appetizers.
Serving Suggestions
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With Dips → Pair with ketchup, garlic mayo, ranch, or spicy sriracha sauce.
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Snack Platter → Serve alongside fries, onion rings, and nuggets for game nights.
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Tea-Time Treat → Perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
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Kids’ Favorite → Great lunchbox or after-school snack.
Storage & Reheating
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Fridge → Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven/air fryer to regain crispiness.
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Freezer → Shape and coat balls, place on a tray to freeze, then store in freezer bags. Fry directly from frozen (just a few minutes longer).
Why You’ll Love These Potato Balls ❤️
✔ Crispy outside, cheesy inside
✔ Perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish
✔ Customizable with endless variations
✔ Can be deep-fried, shallow-fried, or air-fried
Final Words
Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls are the kind of snack that everyone loves – crispy, comforting, and packed with flavor. With their crunchy coating and molten cheesy center, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party, pack them for lunch, or simply enjoy them fresh out of the pan, they’re guaranteed to satisfy every craving.
So next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t waste them – turn them into these irresistible golden bites of joy! ✨