Are you ready to elevate your mashed potato game? Say hello to Loaded Mashed Potato Balls – the ultimate appetizer or side dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more. These delightful bites take the classic mashed potatoes and transform them into crispy, cheesy, bacon-infused goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold)
• ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
• ½ pound bacon (cooked & crumbled, divided)
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese (cubed)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped green onions, and ¼ cup of the crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mashed potato mixture into 1-inch balls.
3. Press a cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each mashed potato ball and mold the potatoes around it until covered.
4. Roll each ball into a smooth, round shape.
5. Dip each potato ball into the beaten egg, ensuring even coating.
6. Roll the egg-coated potato balls in the remaining bacon bits until fully covered.
7. Place the coated potato balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with cooking spray.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
10. Enjoy these irresistible Loaded Mashed Potato Balls as a flavorful appetizer or side dish!

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serve Fresh: Loaded Mashed Potato Balls are best served fresh from the oven when they are hot, crispy, and oozing with melted cheese. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
2. Pairing Suggestions: These potato balls pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or barbecue sauce. Consider offering a selection of sauces to cater to different preferences.
3. Make-Ahead Option: While these potato balls are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to step 7, then cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
4. Reheating Instructions: If you have leftovers or prepared the potato balls in advance, you can easily reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Freezing Tips: These potato balls can also be frozen for longer storage. After coating them in egg and bacon bits, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the potato balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
6. Serve with Garnishes: Before serving, garnish the potato balls with additional chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color.
7. Portion Control: If serving as an appetizer, consider portioning out the potato balls evenly to ensure everyone gets their fair share. You can use a small serving dish or individual appetizer plates for presentation.
8. Store Leftovers Properly: If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Loaded Mashed Potato Balls remain delicious and enjoyable, whether served fresh or reheated.

FAQs:

1. Can I make these potato balls ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the potato balls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Simply follow the recipe until step 7, then cover and refrigerate the coated potato balls. When ready to bake, proceed with step 8.
2. Can I freeze the potato balls?
   • Yes, these potato balls can be frozen for later use. Place the unbaked potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with step 8.
3. How do I reheat leftover potato balls?
   • To reheat leftover potato balls, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade mashed potatoes?
   • Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a shortcut. Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, then proceed with the recipe as directed, adding the green onions and bacon.
5. Can I make these potato balls gluten-free?
   • Yes, you can make these potato balls gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for coating. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the mashed potatoes, are gluten-free.
6. What can I serve with these potato balls?
7. These potato balls are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing or marinara sauce, or serve them alongside a salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Next time you’re craving something delicious and comforting, whip up a batch of these Loaded Mashed Potato Balls and watch them disappear in no time. Your taste buds will thank you!