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Potato Balls Recipe

Potato Balls Recipe – Homemade Love in Every Bite

James Clark
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about biting into a perfectly golden, crisp-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside potato ball. For many, this dish brings back childhood memories of family kitchens, rainy-day comfort foods, or late-night street snacks served fresh and piping hot. These potato balls aren't just fried finger foods—they’re tiny bundles of joy that combine comfort, flavor, and warmth in every bite.
4.50 from 2 votes
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine Fusion, South Asian
Servings 3 - 4 People
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Basic Kitchen Equipment You'll Need
  • To get perfect results every time, make sure you have these on hand:
  • Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
  • Mixing bowls (one for mash, one for coating)
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Air fryer (any model with temperature control)
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Tray or plate (for assembling balls before cooking)
  • Optional: Use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop for evenly sized balls.

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients for the Best Potato Balls Recipe
  • You don’t need fancy ingredients to make these crispy potato balls—just simple pantry staples. Here's what you'll need for a basic homemade version with optional filling ideas.
  • Main Ingredients
  • 4 large potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for flavor
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream, for creamier texture
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella – optional filling
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley or cilantro
  • Coating Ingredients
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1½ cups breadcrumbs plain or panko, for extra crunch
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray for air fryer
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • Cooked crumbled ground beef or chicken (¼ cup, for protein-packed filling)
  • Chopped green onions
  • Grated carrots or mashed peas for veggie versions
  • Chili flakes for a spicy twist
  • Pro Tip: The best Potato Balls Recipe is built on balance—don’t overstuff with fillings or they may break open during cooking.

Instructions
 

  • Step-by-Step Instructions – Potato Balls Recipe
  • Follow these easy steps to create crispy, golden, air-fried potato balls with creamy interiors. Each step is designed for healthy, homemade cooking.
  • Step 1: Boil and Mash the Potatoes
  • Peel and cube the potatoes.
  • Boil them in salted water for about 12–15 minutes until fork-tender.
  • Drain completely and mash the potatoes while still warm.
  • Add butter, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Mash until the mixture is smooth.
  • Let it cool slightly before handling.
  • Step 2: Add Fillings and Flavor
  • Stir in chopped parsley.
  • Add any optional fillings like shredded cheese, sautéed onions, or cooked ground meat.
  • Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
  • Step 3: Shape the Potato Balls
  • Scoop out small portions of the mixture (1–2 tablespoons each).
  • Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, round balls.
  • Place the shaped balls on a tray lined with parchment paper or foil.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm them up.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Coating Station
  • Set up three shallow bowls:
  • One with all-purpose flour
  • One with beaten eggs
  • One with breadcrumbs
  • Roll each chilled potato ball in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
  • Make sure each ball is evenly coated on all sides.
  • Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
  • Place the coated potato balls in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
  • Lightly spray the tops with oil spray.
  • Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
  • Remove the potato balls from the air fryer.
  • Let them cool for 3–5 minutes.
  • Serve warm with your favorite dips such as ketchup, garlic mayo, ranch, or chili sauce.
  • Important Tip:
  • Don’t skip the chilling step before frying—this helps the potato balls hold their shape and prevents splitting during cooking.
Keyword Potato Balls Recipe