Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines savory meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, all encased in a crispy exterior. This recipe is perfect for parties, appetizers, or a fun dinner option that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- 400 g minced meat
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1.5 teaspoons of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- For the Mashed Potato Balls:
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Coating and Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is thoroughly blended.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, walnut-sized meatballs.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: After draining, place the potatoes back into the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until creamy. Add salt and pepper to your liking.
- Cool Mashed Potatoes: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
Assemble the Potato Balls
- Stuff Potatoes: Take a small handful of mashed potatoes and flatten it into a disk. Place a meatball in the center, then wrap the mashed potatoes around the meatball, sealing it completely. Repeat with the remaining meatballs and mashed potatoes.
- Add Cheese: Insert a small piece of cheese into the center of the potato and meatball ball, making sure it’s fully enclosed by the mashed potatoes.
Coat the Potato Balls
- Set Up Coating Station: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
- Coat Balls: Roll each potato ball in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
Fry the Potato Balls
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
- Fry Balls: Fry the potato balls in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the potato balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Conclusion
Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful and hearty dish that combines the best of meatballs and mashed potatoes into one bite-sized package. These crispy, cheesy, and savory balls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, party appetizer, or game day snack. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.