Discover the joy of making Baked Potato Cheese Balls, a delightful snack that transforms simple ingredients into a crispy, cheesy treat. Perfect for utilizing leftover mashed potatoes, these cheese balls are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. Ideal for game days, parties, or as a unique side dish, these bites are sure to be a hit with all age groups.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust based on the saltiness of potatoes)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture. Using your hands, roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Step 4: Coat the Balls

Set up three bowls to make a breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip in the egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy aioli.

Variation

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or smoked gouda for different flavors.

Cooking Note

Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too moist; if the mixture is too sticky, add a little more flour to help the balls hold their shape better.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Potato Cheese Balls can be served as an appetizer with various dips or as a side dish alongside main courses like grilled meats or a hearty salad.

Tips

• Chilling the potato mixture before shaping can make the process easier and less sticky.
• Keep the size of the balls uniform for even cooking.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield

• Approximately 20 cheese balls

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 150 per cheese ball
• Protein: 4g per serving
• Sodium: 200mg per serving

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the cheese balls before baking? A: Yes, you can freeze the shaped balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: How long will these cheese balls keep? A: Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Cheese Balls are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. With their crispy exterior, gooey cheese center, and customizable flavors, they offer a delightful snack or side that’s sure to please. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty new recipe, these cheese balls provide a satisfying solution.