How to Make Mashed Potato Bacon and Cheese Balls

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups Mashed Potatoes (leftover, any style; reheat if cold)
• 1 large Egg (beaten, for binding)
• 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.5 cup Bacon Bits (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded; can use mozzarella or any meltable cheese)
• 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or panko for extra crunch)
• 2 cups Canola Oil (for deep‑frying; oil depth about 1 inch)
• 1 large Egg (beaten, for coating)

Instructions

1. Gather Ingredients & Seasonings

   Measure out 2‑3 cups of leftover mashed potatoes and set aside. Have pepper, garlic powder, salt, and the first egg ready.

   Time: PT5M

2. Combine Binding Egg and Spices

   In the mixing bowl, add the beaten egg, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix thoroughly with a fork until smooth.

   Time: PT5M

3. Set Up Coating Station

   In a small bowl beat the second egg. Place ½ cup flour in one shallow dish and 1 cup breadcrumbs in another.

   Time: PT5M

4. Shape Cheese‑Filled Balls

   Take about 1‑2 tbsp of the potato mixture, flatten in your hand, place a small spoonful (≈1 tsp) of shredded cheese in the center, add a pinch of bacon bits, then roll into a smooth ball.

   Time: PT10M

5. Double Coat the Balls

   Roll each ball in flour, dip in the beaten egg, coat in breadcrumbs, dip again in egg, and finish with a second breadcrumb coating.

   Time: PT10M

6. Heat Oil to 350°F

   Pour canola oil into the frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium‑high until the oil reaches 350°F (180°C).

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

7. Fry the Balls

   Carefully lower a few balls into the hot oil. Fry for 3‑4 minutes, turning every 15‑20 seconds, until they are dark golden‑brown and the cheese is melted.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 350°F

8. Drain & Rest

   Remove the balls with tongs and place on a paper‑towel‑lined plate to drain excess oil.

   Time: PT2M

9. Serve

   Serve hot with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

120

Protein

4 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

7 g

Fiber

1 g