mash potato balls

Why I Love This Recipe
crunchy yet sweet and flavorful side dish
Ingredients You'll Need
4 slices bacon, diced
2 cups vegetable oil, or more, as needed
3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups Panko*
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
Directions
1.Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
2.Heat vegetable oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium high heat.
3.In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheese, chives, cayenne pepper and bacon.
4.Using a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch balls, forming about 25.
5.Working one at a time, dip balls into eggs, then dredge in Panko, pressing to coat.
6.Working in batches, add balls to the Dutch oven and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
7.Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan, if desired
Pairs Well With
roast