Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls: A Tasty Appetizer

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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes**

Start by peeling and boiling the **russet potatoes** in a large pot of salted water. Cook the potatoes for about **15-20 minutes**, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add the **butter**, **milk**, **salt**, **black pepper**, and optional **garlic powder** and **onion powder**. Mix until the potatoes are creamy and seasoned to your taste. Let the mashed potatoes cool down slightly.

#### **Step 2: Stuff the Potatoes with Cheese**

Once the mashed potatoes are slightly cooled, it’s time to create the cheese-filled potato balls. Take a small portion of the mashed potatoes (about a tablespoon) and flatten it out in your hand. Place a cube of your favorite **cheese** in the center. You can use mozzarella for a stringy, melty center or cheddar for a sharp flavor. Gently form the mashed potatoes around the cheese, shaping them into a ball.

Repeat with the remaining mashed potatoes and cheese until all the balls are formed.

#### **Step 3: Prepare the Coating Station**

Set up a coating station by placing three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add the **flour**. In the second dish, beat the **eggs**. In the third dish, place the **bread crumbs**.

Roll each cheese-stuffed potato ball first in the flour, ensuring it is lightly coated. Dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then roll it in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly.

#### **Step 4: Fry the Potato Balls**

Heat about **1-2 inches** of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small breadcrumb dropped into it sizzles immediately.

Carefully place the potato balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for **3-4 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the potato balls and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**

Once the cheese stuffed potato balls are golden brown and crispy, they’re ready to serve! Garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.

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### **Variations to Try**

While this classic recipe is simple and delicious, you can make your cheese stuffed potato balls even more exciting by adding different ingredients to the mix. Here are some fun ideas:

1. **Bacon and Cheddar**: Add crumbled bacon to the mashed potatoes for an extra savory, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar cheese.
2. **Herb-Infused**: Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme to the mashed potatoes for added fragrance and flavor.
3. **Veggie Delight**: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the mashed potato mixture for a veggie-filled twist.
4. **Spicy Kick**: Add a little **jalapeño** or **hot sauce** to the filling for a spicy surprise inside the potato balls.

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### **Why Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls Are Perfect for Any Occasion**

1. **Perfect for Parties**: These potato balls are easy to make in large batches, making them a fantastic appetizer for gatherings, parties, or potlucks.
2. **Kid-Friendly**: Kids love cheesy, crispy snacks, and these potato balls are no exception. They’re an ideal choice for a fun snack or a special treat.
3. **Make-Ahead Option**: You can make these potato balls ahead of time, freeze them, and fry them when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to have a delicious appetizer ready to go at a moment’s notice.
4. **Great for Meal Prepping**: These bite-sized balls make an easy addition to lunchboxes or as a side dish for dinner. They store well in the fridge and can be reheated easily.

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### **Conclusion**

**Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls** are the ultimate cheesy, crispy, and indulgent appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With the perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese, these bite-sized treats are an irresistible addition to any gathering. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these cheese-stuffed delights are sure to become a family favorite in no time. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear!