There’s something magical about turning leftover mashed potatoes into a show-stopping snack. Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect way to reinvent a classic side dish into crispy, cheesy bites of joy. Golden on the outside, gooey in the middle, and baked—not fried—this recipe gives you all the indulgence without the mess of deep frying.

The first time I made these, they were gone before I could say “potato.” The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, molten cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating creates an irresistible bite that works as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With minimal ingredients and an easy baking method, you’ll have a delicious treat that feels gourmet in no time. Let’s roll up some Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls!

Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls combine creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, all baked to golden perfection. This simple, oven-baked recipe is ideal for using up leftovers or creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

An Exciting Story

The first time I made these Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls, it was the day after Thanksgiving. I had too much leftover mashed potatoes and not enough inspiration—until I remembered this recipe. My husband loved the crispy coating and gooey center, and the kids thought they were little bites of heaven. Now, we make them any time we have extra potatoes, and they never last long.

Why These Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls?

• Baked, Not Fried: All the crispy goodness without the hassle of deep frying.
• Gooey and Cheesy: A melty cheese center makes them irresistible.
• Perfect for Leftovers: An easy and delicious way to use mashed potatoes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for big flavor.

What You Need for Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

• For the Potato Mixture:
  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cooled)
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for binding, if needed)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
• For the Filling:
  • 8-10 small cubes of mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese of choice)
• For Coating:
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Cooking spray or oil for brushing

How to Make Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. If the mixture feels too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s easier to handle.
3. Shape the Balls:
   • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten it into a small disc. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it, forming a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Coat the Potato Balls:
   • Roll each potato ball in the beaten egg, then coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Potato Balls:
   • Lightly spray or brush the potato balls with cooking spray or oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the potato balls cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or sour cream.

Tips for Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

1. Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Chilled mashed potatoes are easier to work with and hold their shape better.
2. Cheese Options: Mozzarella is perfect for a gooey center, but cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack also work well.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal for the coating.
• Add Flavor: Mix in herbs like parsley, chives, or a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the mashed potatoes or use pepper jack cheese.
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use cauliflower mash instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.
• Replace mozzarella with low-fat cheese.
• Bake with less oil or use an air fryer for a lighter, crispier texture.

Closing for Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

And there you have it—Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls, a crispy, cheesy, and totally addictive snack that’s as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for using up leftovers, impressing guests, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our easy comfort food recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the potato balls, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Can I freeze these potato balls?
Yes, freeze unbaked potato balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Why are my potato balls falling apart?
Ensure your mashed potatoes are cold and add a little flour or egg to help bind them if they’re too soft.

Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes, deep fry the balls in oil at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

What’s the best dipping sauce?
Serve with marinara, ranch dressing, sour cream, or even spicy ketchup for a flavor boost.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but make sure they’re thick and well-seasoned to avoid bland potato balls.

How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray the coated balls with cooking oil before baking.

Can I add bacon?
Absolutely! Add crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for a savory twist.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and mashed potatoes made with plant-based milk.

What’s a fun serving idea?
Serve these potato balls on a platter with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces for a party-friendly snack.

How do I ensure the cheese melts perfectly?
Use small cubes of cheese and make sure they’re fully wrapped in the potato mixture before baking.

Easy No Deep-Fry Cheese Stuffed Mashed Potato Balls

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Potato Mixture:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cooled)

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for binding, if needed)

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Salt, to taste

• For the Filling:

• 8-10 small cubes of mozzarella cheese (or any melty cheese of choice)

• For Coating:

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Cooking spray or oil for brushing

Directions

• Preheat the Oven:
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Potato Mixture:
• In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. If the mixture feels too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it’s easier to handle.
• Shape the Balls:
• Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and flatten it into a small disc. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the potato mixture around it, forming a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
• Coat the Potato Balls:
• Roll each potato ball in the beaten egg, then coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake the Potato Balls:
• Lightly spray or brush the potato balls with cooking spray or oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve and Enjoy:
• Let the potato balls cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or sour cream.