If you’ve ever wished for a crispy, golden appetizer that absolutely steals the show at parties or family dinners, Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are about to become your new go-to favorite. These irresistible bites are the very definition of comfort food: creamy mashed potatoes blended with sharp Parmesan and fresh garlic, coated in a crunchy crust, and fried to perfection. Whether you’re making them for a holiday spread or a cozy movie night, Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls promise big flavor, easy prep, and serious wow factor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls lies in just a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient adds its own layer of flavor and texture, making these little morsels completely unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy base that holds everything together and gives that melt-in-your-mouth interior.
- Parmesan cheese (shredded): Adds sharp, nutty depth and helps create that signature savory crust.
- Garlic (minced): For rich, aromatic bite—fresh garlic brings these potato balls to life.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Brings a pop of color and subtle brightness, balancing the savory flavors.
- Egg (beaten): Acts as a glue for breading and adds a delicate, rich texture inside the potato balls.
- Breadcrumbs: Essential for that golden, satisfying crunch on the outside.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together; don’t skip this simple but key seasoning.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and extra depth.
- Paprika: For color and a soft, smoky undertone that perfectly matches the cheesy core.
- Flour: The first layer in the coating process, helping everything stick together for frying.
- Oil for frying: Pick a neutral oil, like canola or vegetable, for beautifully crispy results without overpowering flavor.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls
Step 1: Mix Up the Flavorful Base
In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded Parmesan, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until you see flecks of green and cheese throughout. This is the heart and soul of your Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls—take a moment to enjoy that delicious aroma before moving onto shaping!
Step 2: Shape into Bite-Sized Balls
Scoop out heaping tablespoons of your potato mixture and use your hands to roll them into small, even balls. Consistency is key here, since you want each ball to cook at the same rate. If you’d like to add a gooey cheese center, just press a cube of mozzarella into the middle before sealing it up!
Step 3: Coat for Extra Crunch
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball first in flour, then dunk it into the egg, and finally coat it generously with breadcrumbs. This triple-layered process ensures every Parmesan Garlic Potato Ball comes out with a beautifully crispy exterior.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully lower in the potato balls in batches, being sure not to crowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 3–4 minutes, turning to get a deep, even brown on all sides. When they’re perfectly crisp, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve While They’re Still Warm
As soon as the Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls have cooled just enough to handle, serve them up on a platter. These beauties are best enjoyed fresh, with your favorite dipping sauces ready and waiting!
How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls
Garnishes
Finish your Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls with a dusting of extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. The cheese intensifies that savory flavor, while the herbs make your presentation look irresistibly fresh. For a touch of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes also works wonders.
Side Dishes
Pair these cheesy potato balls with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of homemade soup for a cozy meal. They also shine alongside grilled meats or as a standout addition to a party platter with sliders and finger foods.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls onto a cake stand or wooden board for a dramatic appetizer centerpiece. Or, skewer them on cocktail sticks for easy serving at a cocktail party. A ring of potato balls around a bowl of creamy dipping sauce is always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls left, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll keep their flavor beautifully and can be easily revived for snacking.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooked, cooled potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container and store up to 2 months. This makes them a great candidate for prepping ahead of holidays or busy weeks!
Reheating
The best way to bring back that irresistible crunch is by reheating in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to soften the breadcrumb coating—though the flavor will still be just as good!
FAQs
Can I bake Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, arrange the coated balls on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, turning once for even browning. You’ll still get plenty of crunch.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
Yukon Golds or Russets are both excellent choices for mashed potatoes in this recipe. Their texture and flavor give the best results for fluffy, creamy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture and taste still come out fantastic, so everyone can enjoy!
Can I prepare them in advance for a party?
Definitely! Shape and coat the balls a day ahead, arrange on a tray, cover well, and refrigerate. When guests arrive, just fry or bake as directed—easy and stress-free entertaining.
What sauces go best with Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls?
They’re delicious with classic marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli. For a spicy kick, try sriracha mayo or a smoky chipotle dip. The crunch and creaminess pair well with nearly anything!
Final Thoughts
It’s almost impossible not to fall in love with Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls. Every bite is packed with flavor, crunch, and creamy indulgence, making them a must-try dish for any gathering or casual meal. Give these a spot in your kitchen repertoire—you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!
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Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 potato balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with delicious flavors. Perfect as a party appetizer or a tasty snack, these fried potato balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Batter and Coating:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika until well mixed.
- Shape Balls: Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands.
- Coat Balls: Roll each ball in flour, dip into beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Serve: Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can bake these at 400°F for 20 minutes for a lighter version.
- Add a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each ball for a gooey surprise.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 potato balls
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
