Tired of the same old snacks? Craving something cheesy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! These simple potato cheese balls are the perfect solution. They're a delightful appetizer, a fun snack for the kids, or even a quirky addition to your next dinner party. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly easy and delicious recipe – perfect for quick dinner ideas or a homemade cooking project.
Ingredients: You'll only need a handful!
- 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Recipe Even Beginners Can Master
Get started: Begin by boiling your potatoes until tender. This is the most time-consuming part, but it's a simple task! Once cooked, peel and mash them thoroughly. The smoother the mash, the better the texture of your cheese balls will be.
Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where you can get creative – feel free to add your favorite spices!
Shape the balls: Once the mixture is well combined, roll it into 1-inch balls. Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking. This part is fun, especially if you're making these with kids!
Fry to perfection: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the potato cheese balls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and serve: Once golden brown, remove the cheese balls from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best served warm, but they're still delicious at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for Extra Deliciousness
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a little kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would all work wonderfully.
- Crispy coating: For an extra crispy coating, you can bread the cheese balls twice. Simply roll them in breadcrumbs, then dip them in the beaten egg again, and finally roll them in breadcrumbs one more time before frying.
- Baking alternative: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the cheese balls instead of frying them. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate)
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per cheese ball would be:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Fat: 5-8g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe offers a delicious and relatively healthy snack option, especially when baked rather than fried. Remember that these are estimates and can vary based on your ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Enjoy Your Delicious Homemade Potato Cheese Balls!
These simple potato cheese balls are a fantastic recipe for easy recipes and healthy meals. They are perfect for any occasion and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking. They're quick, easy, and endlessly customizable—making them a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. So go ahead, give them a try! You won't be disappointed.