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Herb-Infused Baked Potato Balls
Herb-Infused Baked Potato Balls are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes with aromatic herbs, melted cheese, and a golden baked exterior that delivers irresistible crunch without deep frying. These flavorful, bite-sized potato balls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, and because they’re baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter, healthier option that still tastes indulgent.
This recipe delivers everything you want in a savory treat: the soft, fluffy texture of seasoned potatoes, the richness of cheese, and the freshness of herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a party, or preparing a simple weeknight snack, these baked potato balls are guaranteed to impress. They’re easy to shape, hold well in the oven, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and cheese blends.
Why You'll Love These Baked Potato Balls
These potato balls strike the perfect balance between hearty comfort food and gourmet flavor. The herbs infuse the potatoes with a fresh, aromatic taste that makes each bite satisfying without feeling heavy. Baking them allows the outside to crisp up beautifully while the inside stays creamy and soft. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can pair them with dipping sauces, serve them as appetizers, or enjoy them as a full meal alongside a salad or protein.
Unlike fried potato balls, these bake evenly, stay light, and require minimal cleanup. You can even prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. They’re ideal for meal prepping, entertaining guests, or creating a fun snack that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
For the Potato Balls:
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 5–6 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
For the Coating:
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for mixing into the crumbs)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
How to Prepare Herb-Infused Baked Potato Balls
Start by preparing your mashed potatoes. For the best texture, allow the potatoes to cool before mixing in the other ingredients—warm potatoes can lead to a sticky mixture that’s harder to shape. Once cooled, add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. The herbs will add color and aroma, while the cheeses give the potato balls their rich, creamy interior.
In a small bowl, lightly beat the two eggs. Gradually incorporate them into the potato mixture. The eggs act as binding agents, helping the potato balls hold their shape during baking. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes to make shaping easier.
Next, prepare the coating. In a medium bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, paprika, oregano, and olive oil. The oil helps the coating crisp up in the oven, creating that satisfying crunch on the outside without frying.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning. Scoop out portions of the potato mixture using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, then roll each portion into a smooth ball. Aim for uniform size so they bake evenly. Once rolled, coat each potato ball thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture and place it on the baking sheet.
Bake the potato balls for 18–22 minutes, or until the exterior is golden and crispy. Halfway through the baking time, gently turn them with tongs to ensure even browning. The aroma of herbs and cheese will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait until they’re done!
Serving Suggestions
These Herb-Infused Baked Potato Balls pair wonderfully with dipping sauces. Try serving them with homemade garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, creamy ranch, smoky barbecue sauce, or even a simple marinara dip. Their versatile flavor allows them to complement almost any sauce you love.
Serve them as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled beef, or a fresh green salad. They also make a great addition to brunch spreads or festive holiday tables. The combination of crispy coating and soft, herbed interior makes them enjoyable at any temperature—hot from the oven, warm, or even room temperature.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These potato balls store beautifully. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
To freeze, arrange uncooked potato balls on a tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven—no thawing needed. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
These Herb-Infused Baked Potato Balls are a flavorful and satisfying snack that brings together comfort food simplicity and gourmet elegance. With their crispy coating, creamy interior, and fresh herb aroma, they are guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.