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Sweet Potato Cheese Balls

Sweet Potato Cheese Balls

Sweet Potato Cheese Balls are crispy, golden-brown snacks combining naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes with rich, melty cheese, perfect as appetizers or party snacks. These easy-to-make bites offer a satisfying crunch on the outside and a creamy, cheesy center, suitable for family-friendly occasions and versatile enough for various flavor variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks, then boil or steam them until tender. Drain completely and mash until smooth, removing any lumps to create a creamy base.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the mashed sweet potatoes with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients form a pliable, slightly sticky dough.
  3. Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Ensure they are compact enough to hold together but not too dense.
  4. Coat the Balls: Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs evenly to cover the surface, which will help achieve a crispy, golden crust when cooked.
  5. Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Notes

  • Use dry sweet potatoes to avoid watery mixture and soggy balls.
  • Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to make handling easier.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pan; give each ball enough space to cook evenly and stay crispy.
  • Test fry one ball first to check seasoning and texture; adjust if necessary.
  • For extra crunch, substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato cheese balls, cheesy snacks, crispy appetizers, party snacks, gluten free appetizer, sweet potato recipe