Baked Potato Cheese Balls

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for Baked Potato Cheese Balls that you can easily make at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 large russet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles (optional but adds flavor!)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)

• 1-2 eggs (for binding)

• Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the potatoes:

   • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into chunks and boil them in a large pot of salted water for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

   • Drain the potatoes and mash them well. Let them cool down slightly.

2. Make the mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon crumbles (if using), green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully combined.

3. Form the cheese balls:

   • Scoop out a tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.

   • If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly to make rolling easier.

4. Coat the cheese balls:

   • In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

   • Dip each potato ball into the egg, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully coated.

5. Bake the cheese balls:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   • Arrange the coated cheese balls on the baking sheet, and lightly brush or spray them with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up while baking.

   • Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

6. Serve and enjoy!:

   • Serve warm with a dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli if you like.

Tips:

• You can make the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just roll and bake when ready.

• For a healthier twist, you can try air frying the balls for a similar crispness with less oil.