Cheesy meatball-stuffed mashed potato balls are the ultimate comfort food. These crispy, golden balls combine two beloved classics—meatballs and mashed potatoes—into one bite-sized treat. Filled with juicy, flavorful meatballs and gooey melted cheese, these mashed potato balls make an irresistible snack or appetizer. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something savory and cheesy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 400 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Stuffing & Coating:
- 150 g cheese (mozzarella or cheddar, cut into small cubes)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, around the size of a tablespoon each.
- Warm some oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the meatballs until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- While the meatballs are cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Add butter and milk, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well and let the mashed potatoes cool enough to handle.
Step 3: Assemble the Mashed Potato Balls
- Take a scoop of mashed potatoes (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place a cooked meatball in the center of the mashed potatoes, along with a small cube of cheese.
- Carefully wrap the mashed potatoes around the meatball and cheese, forming it into a ball.
- Repeat this process until all the meatballs are wrapped in mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Coat the Balls
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Roll each mashed potato ball in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is evenly coated.
Step 5: Fry the Potato Balls
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the potato balls.
- Fry the coated mashed potato balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the cheesy meatball-stuffed mashed potato balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a garlic aioli.
Conclusion:
Cheesy meatball-stuffed mashed potato balls are the perfect fusion of tender meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese. Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, these balls are a fun and satisfying snack that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re making them for a party or enjoying them as a family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to bring joy to the table!