Description
These Crispy Parmesan Garlic Potato Balls are a deliciously crunchy snack or appetizer featuring tender potatoes mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs. Fried to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy exterior, making them an irresistible comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 2 lbs. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, quartered
- 7 tbsp cornstarch (or 10 tbsp all-purpose flour)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic granules
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Coating & Frying
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Boil the quartered Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool slightly.
- Mash and Mix: Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add cornstarch (or flour), 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic granules, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well to form a firm, combined mixture.
- Shape the Balls: With clean hands, shape the potato mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Coat with Parmesan: Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to lightly coat the surface and add an extra crunchy layer when fried.
- Heat the Oil: Heat cooking oil in a deep pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be enough to fully submerge the potato balls for even frying.
- Fry the Potato Balls: Carefully place the potato balls into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the potato balls with a slotted spoon, allowing excess oil to drain on paper towels. Season with additional salt if desired and serve warm as a savory snack or appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute cornstarch with all-purpose flour if needed, but cornstarch gives a crispier texture.
- Ensure potatoes are well-drained to avoid soggy mixtures.
- For extra flavor, add finely minced garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.
- These potato balls are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven for up to 15 minutes.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for perfect crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
