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Crispy Potato Balls

Golden-fried appetizers featuring mashed potatoes mixed with fresh parsley and warm spices, served with a homemade Canes-style dipping sauce.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium potatoes (boiled and mashed until smooth)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps bind and crisp the exterior)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for fresh herb flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for savory depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (adds mild smokiness and color)
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
  • 2 cups oil (for frying, vegetable or canola oil works best)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (creamy base for dipping sauce)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (adds tanginess to the sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for the dipping sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for the dipping sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for the dipping sauce)

Instructions

  1. Boil the 3 medium potatoes until fork-tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Drain completely and mash until smooth with no lumps remaining.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with cornstarch, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili flakes if using. Stir until evenly incorporated.
  3. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball, aiming for consistency in size so they cook evenly.
  4. Place the rolled potato balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm them up before frying, which prevents them from falling apart in the oil.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until smooth and well combined.
  6. Pour oil into a large skillet or shallow pan to a depth of about 2 inches and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A small piece of potato mixture should sizzle immediately when dropped in.
  7. Carefully place the frozen potato balls into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  8. Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy potato balls and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot alongside your homemade Canes-style dipping sauce.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: These irresistible bites are perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion when you want an easy, crowd-pleasing snack.