cheesy potato balls!!!

Ingredients :

• • 2-3 large potatoes, or 2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
  • ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon celery powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 2-3 beaten eggs
  • Canola or vegetable oil for frying

  Optional Ingredients:

  • Cooked and crumbled bacon or ham
  • Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, etc.)

Instructions : 

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes (if needed):

   • If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, peel and cut the potatoes into uniform cubes.
   • Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.
   • Drain the water and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Combine the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions (if using), garlic powder, celery powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Using a spoon or spatula, mix everything well until thoroughly incorporated.

3. Shape the Potato Balls:

   • Lightly grease your hands with oil to prevent sticking.
   • Scoop out a small portion of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
   • Repeat this process with the remaining mixture, placing the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bread the Potato Balls:

   • Set up a breading station with two shallow bowls. In one bowl, whisk the beaten eggs. In the other bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
5. • Dredge each potato ball in the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

6. Fry the Potato Balls:

   • Heat the oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
   • Carefully add a few potato balls at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
   • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried potato balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • While the remaining potato balls are frying, you can warm up tortillas (optional) if desired.
   • Once all the potato balls are fried, arrange them on a serving platter and serve them warm.
   • You can enjoy them plain or with your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.