Loaded Mashed Potato

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Thanksgiving is a time of feasting, family, and creating memories around the dinner table. But once the turkey has been carved and the mashed potatoes have been served, the next challenge arises: what to do with all those leftovers? Enter Loaded Mashed Potato Balls, a delightful way to reinvent your holiday remnants into a crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly savory snack. These golden bites are not only practical but also incredibly indulgent, making them a hit for any post-Thanksgiving gathering.

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Loaded Mashed Potato Balls bring together everything you love about comfort food. The creamy mashed potatoes are enriched with cheddar cheese, parmesan, garlic, and chives, seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika for a touch of smoky warmth. Coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, they offer a satisfying contrast of textures – crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside. Serve them with your favorite dips like sour cream, gravy, or onion dip, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time.

Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the step-by-step process of creating these flavorful bites. We’ll also discuss ingredient variations, substitution tips, and serving suggestions to ensure your Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are a resounding success.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make these Loaded Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Oil for Frying (1½ cups): Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best. They provide a clean frying medium that lets the flavors of the potato balls shine.
• Prepared Mashed Potatoes (2 – 2½ cups, room temperature): Use your Thanksgiving leftovers or make a fresh batch. The potatoes should be creamy but not overly wet.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (¾ cup): Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and melty texture to the mixture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (3 tablespoons): Brings a nutty, salty depth to the flavor profile.
• Chopped Chives (2 tablespoons): Provide a fresh, oniony brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and potatoes.
• Garlic Powder (1½ teaspoons): Infuses a subtle, savory garlic note.
• Smoked Paprika (¼ teaspoon): Offers a hint of smoky warmth, elevating the overall flavor.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors.
• Large Egg (1, lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1¼ cups): Creates a light, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oil:
   • Heat 1½ cups of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350ºF, the ideal temperature for frying. This ensures even cooking and a crisp, golden exterior.
2. Mix the Potato Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan, chopped chives, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Use a silicone spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
   • Using a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Set Up the Dredging Station:
   • Pour the lightly beaten egg into a shallow bowl.
   • Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow bowl.
   • Working in batches, dip each mashed potato ball into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
4. Fry the Potato Balls:
   • Carefully add 5 or 6 coated potato balls to the hot oil at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly golden and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Loaded Mashed Potato Balls immediately with your choice of dips. Popular options include sour cream, homemade gravy, or onion dip.

Flavor and Texture Description

The beauty of Loaded Mashed Potato Balls lies in their irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a soft and creamy interior that’s bursting with cheesy goodness. The cheddar cheese melts into the mashed potatoes, creating a luscious, gooey center, while the parmesan adds a subtle nutty depth. The chives and garlic lend a savory, aromatic kick, and the smoked paprika provides a hint of warmth that ties everything together. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crunch and creaminess, making these potato balls a true crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions

• Cheddar Cheese: Swap it out for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago as an alternative.
• Chives: Green onions or finely chopped parsley work well in place of chives.
• Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used for a different kind of heat.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if panko isn’t available.

Variations to Try

1. Bacon-Loaded Potato Balls: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Potato Balls: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for an elevated, earthy twist.
3. Spicy Potato Balls: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
4. Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls: Insert a small cube of mozzarella or brie into the center of each ball before coating and frying for a molten surprise.
5. Oven-Baked Potato Balls: For a healthier option, bake the potato balls at 400ºF for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Loaded Mashed Potato Balls as an appetizer at your next holiday party.
• Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or cranberry relish.
• Use them as a side dish alongside roasted turkey, ham, or grilled chicken.
• Create a fun snack platter with other finger foods like mini sliders, stuffed mushrooms, and vegetable crudites.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375ºF for 10-12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Making Fresh Mashed Potatoes from Scratch

If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, here’s a quick method to make them from scratch:

1. Peel and cube 1½ pounds of potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
2. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, gradually adding 3 tablespoons of melted butter and ½ cup of buttermilk for a creamy consistency. Add more buttermilk if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are a creative and delicious way to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers. With their perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy elements, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual gathering or simply looking for a comforting snack, these potato balls deliver on all fronts. The recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to experiment with flavors and make it uniquely yours. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible bites!