Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe
If you are craving a snack that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, the Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe is exactly what you need. These bite-sized treasures bring together the comforting richness of mashed potatoes with the sharp, nutty depth of parmesan cheese and the bold aroma of fresh garlic. Perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or a party favorite, this recipe promises a golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth center. Once you try these pops, they’ll easily become a staple in your kitchen, impressing friends and family every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature flavor and texture. From the creamy mashed potatoes forming the base to the zesty garlic and fragrant parsley adding fresh notes, each element works in harmony. Let’s take a look at the essentials that make these pops so deliciously addictive.
- Mashed potatoes (2 cups): The creamy foundation that ensures each pop is soft and satisfying.
- Grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty depth that elevates the flavor instantly.
- Minced garlic (2 tablespoons): Infuses bold, aromatic warmth for that unforgettable garlicky punch.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup): Offers a bright, fresh contrast and a pop of color.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle hint of spice to balance the flavors.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a smoky undertone and a mild heat, boosting the color too.
- Egg, lightly beaten (1): Acts as a binder and helps the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Creates the crunchy coating that makes each pop delightfully crispy.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden exterior with just the right amount of crispness.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Potato Mixture
Start by combining the mashed potatoes, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh parsley, black pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth, even mixture. This step is key because a well-blended base ensures your pops have a wonderful balance of flavors in every bite.
Step 2: Shape Into Balls
Using your hands, scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. These little spheres are the perfect bite-sized treats that will fry up to a crispy golden brown.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating Station
Set up two shallow bowls—one with the lightly beaten egg and the other with the breadcrumbs. This classic two-step coating method will give your potato pops a wonderfully crunchy outer layer that seals in all the creamy deliciousness inside.
Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls
Dip each ball first into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated, then roll it around in the breadcrumbs until it’s completely covered. Don’t rush this step; a thorough coating means a better crunch and a more satisfying texture.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry the potato pops in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so each pop fries evenly and stays crunchy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the fried pops with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them immediately, while they’re still hot and crispy. These are best enjoyed fresh, straight from the pan!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of parmesan cheese over the potato pops just before serving. A light sprinkle of paprika or some flaky sea salt can also amplify the visuals and add an extra burst of flavor. These simple touches make your presentation pop and invite eager bites.
Side Dishes
Pair your Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops with a variety of dipping sauces like tangy marinara, cool ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo for complementary flavor profiles. They also stand beautifully alongside fresh salads or grilled veggies, balancing the richness of the pops with crisp, fresh bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these potato pops on a wooden board skewered with toothpicks for easy sharing at gatherings. For a party platter, arrange them around a bowl of your favorite dip or create a fun “pop bar” with multiple sauce options. This recipe lends itself perfectly to casual entertaining and brings inviting warmth to any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooled potato pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days, retaining most of their flavor, though the exterior won’t be as crispy once chilled.
Freezing
To freeze, place uncoated potato balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, coat them with egg and breadcrumbs and fry directly from frozen. This way, you can have a batch ready for whenever the cravings hit.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen fried potato pops in a hot oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness—avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy. Just a few minutes in the oven will have them tasting almost as fresh as the first fry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully thawed and well-drained before mixing to avoid excess moisture that can affect the texture of your potato pops.
Is it possible to bake the potato pops instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place coated pops on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best frying results without imparting unwanted flavors.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
How do I prevent the potato pops from falling apart while frying?
Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too watery, and handle the balls gently. Using the egg wash before breadcrumbs helps bind everything together and creates a protective crust during frying.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing delight. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a snack to wow your next gathering, this recipe will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate—grab your mashed potatoes and start popping your way to crunchy, garlicky happiness today!
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Garlic Parmesan Potato Pops Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Delicious Garlic Potato Pops are crispy, golden-brown bites packed with flavorful garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they combine creamy mashed potatoes with aromatic herbs and spices, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb layer and fried to perfection.
Ingredients
Potato Pops Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Coating
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (about 1-2 cups, enough for deep frying in skillet)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the mashed potatoes, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, black pepper, and paprika until smooth and well incorporated.
- Shape Potato Pops: Take portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch diameter balls, ensuring they are compact and hold their shape.
- Prepare Coating Station: Set up two bowls—one with the lightly beaten egg and the other with breadcrumbs for coating the shaped potato balls.
- Coat Potato Pops: Dip each potato ball first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it evenly in the breadcrumbs to get a crisp outer layer.
- Heat Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet to submerge the pops partially and heat it over medium heat until shimmering and hot but not smoking.
- Fry Potato Pops: Carefully place the coated potato balls in the hot oil in batches, frying each for 2-3 minutes or until they turn a golden brown and crisp on all sides, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried potato pops and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes or freshly made mashed potatoes cooled to room temperature for best results.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your liking if you prefer a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs.
- Ensure oil temperature is medium heat to cook thoroughly without burning the coating.
- Serve warm for the best crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
