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If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and just a little spicy, then Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are the perfect snack or appetizer. These delicious bites are crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and loaded with gooey, melted cheese. Whether you’re making them for a party or a cozy night in, these potato balls will disappear as soon as they hit the table.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you step by step to create perfectly spiced potato balls with a cheesy center that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients for Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible snack:
For the Potato Balls:
- Potatoes: 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and boiled.
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, cubed into small pieces for stuffing.
- Egg yolk: 1 large, to help bind the potatoes.
- Flour: ¼ cup, for a firmer texture.
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon, for a spicy kick.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon, adds a smoky depth to the flavor.
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to taste.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground.
- Green onions: 2 stalks, finely chopped for added freshness.
For the Coating:
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten for dipping.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for a crispy exterior.
- All-purpose flour: ½ cup, for the first layer of coating.
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil: Enough for deep-frying the potato balls.
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley: For a fresh and bright finish.
- Sour cream or spicy dipping sauce: On the side for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and boil the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and allow them to cool slightly before mashing them into a smooth consistency.
2. Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes, egg yolk, flour, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and green onions. Mix everything together until fully combined. The potato mixture should be smooth and slightly firm.
3. Stuff with Cheese
Take a small handful of the potato mixture and flatten it into a disc shape in your palm. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then gently wrap the potato mixture around the cheese, rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat this process until all the potato mixture is used up.
4. Coat the Potato Balls
Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls. One bowl for the flour, another for the beaten eggs, and the last for the breadcrumbs. Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring that it’s fully covered.
5. Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small piece of bread—it should sizzle and turn golden within a minute.
6. Fry the Potato Balls
Carefully lower the coated potato balls into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes, or until the potato balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve
Serve the Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls hot, with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish. Pair them with a side of sour cream or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls
- Don’t overfill with cheese: Ensure that the cheese cubes are small enough to fit comfortably inside the potato balls without leaking during frying.
- Chill the potato mixture: If the potato mixture feels too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes to firm up before shaping the balls.
- Customize the spice level: If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of chili powder.
- Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is a popular choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls
- Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside: The crispy breadcrumb coating contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior.
- Versatile snack: These potato balls make for a fantastic party appetizer, game-day snack, or even a fun dinner side dish.
- Endless flavor possibilities: You can switch up the seasonings, cheeses, and dips to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy aioli: A blend of mayo, garlic, and hot sauce for a creamy, spicy dip.
- Sour cream with chives: A cool and tangy option that balances the spice.
- Ranch dressing: A classic pairing for any fried snack.
- Salsa or guacamole: For a fresh, zesty twist.
Variations on Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls
- Jalapeño Popper Potato Balls: Add finely chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture and use cream cheese as the stuffing for a jalapeño popper-inspired snack.
- Italian-Style Potato Balls: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella and add Italian seasoning to the potato mixture. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Bacon and Cheese Potato Balls: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon with the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of savory goodness.
Conclusion
Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food snack, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior, creamy potato filling, and melty cheese center, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The touch of spice gives them an extra kick, making them a go-to appetizer or snack whenever you want something indulgent and flavorful.
