Crunchy Potato Balls
Crunchy Potato Balls are savory bites combining creamy mashed potatoes, hearty ham, and melted cheese, coated in crispy cornflakes. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they offer a delightful crunch and rich flavor that appeals to all ages, making them ideal for gatherings or casual family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped ham, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, beaten egg, prepared mustard, and pepper; mix well.
- Add enough all-purpose flour to make a stiff mixture.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls; roll each ball in crushed cornflakes.
- Place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic or chopped green onions to the potato mixture. Ensure the mashed potatoes are very stiff to help hold the balls together. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crunchy potato balls as a delicious appetizer or snack alongside dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard. They pair beautifully with Cheesy Broiled Appetizers for a fun party platter. Consider adding a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Potato Balls contains roughly 1244 calories, with 26g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), and potassium (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the potato balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped potato balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you prefer not to use ham, shredded cooked chicken or turkey can be a great substitute. For a vegetarian option, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or chopped spinach along with the cheese and potatoes.
How do I ensure my potato balls stay crispy?
To keep the potato balls crispy, make sure to roll them generously in crushed cornflakes and bake them on a greased baking sheet to promote even browning. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can cause steaming instead of crisping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).