Step 1: Prepare the Potato Filling
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for this. Be sure there are no lumps.
- Mix in Cheese and Seasonings: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (if using), green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Form the Potato Bombs
- Shape the Potato Mixture: Once the potato mixture has cooled enough to handle, take a spoonful of the mixture and roll it into a ball (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Make sure they are compact so they hold together while frying. Repeat with the rest of the potato mixture.
- Prepare the Dipping Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place:
- Flour in the first dish.
- Beaten eggs in the second dish.
- Panko breadcrumbs in the third dish, mixed with a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Potato Bombs
- Coat the Potato Balls: Roll each potato ball in the flour, coating it lightly. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the breadcrumbs stick. Repeat for all the potato balls.
Step 4: Fry the Potato Bombs
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Potato Bombs: Fry the potato bombs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy all over. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bombs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Finish the Garlic Butter: Stir in the chopped parsley, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the garlic butter simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve
- Drizzle the Garlic Butter: Place the crispy potato and cheese bombs on a serving platter. Drizzle the warm garlic butter over the top of the bombs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Garnish: You can garnish with more fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use other types of cheese, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the potato bombs ahead of time, roll them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just fry them right before serving.
- Baking Option: For a lighter version, you can bake the potato bombs at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, turning them halfway through.
- Add-ins: You can also add finely chopped spinach, herbs, or even jalapeños to the filling for added flavor and color.
Enjoy your Crispy Potato & Cheese Bombs with Garlic Butter—a cheesy, crispy treat that’s perfect for parties, snacks, or as a side dish!