Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil Potatoes:
- In a large pot, cover the peeled and cubed potatoes with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
- Cook Meat and Aromatics:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Broth:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the broth, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Assemble and Shape the Balls
- Assemble the Balls:
- Take a small portion of mashed potatoes (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center. Carefully shape the mashed potato around the filling into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Coat the Balls:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Coat each mashed potato ball in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Air Fry or Fry the Balls
- Air Fry Method:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking oil or spray. Place the coated potato balls in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Frying Method:
- Alternatively, heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the coated potato balls into the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the stuffed meat mashed potato balls to cool slightly before serving. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.
Tips and Variations
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potato balls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to fry.
- Freezing: These balls can also be frozen after shaping but before coating. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw slightly and proceed with coating and frying.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Stuffed Meat Mashed Potato Balls are a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, combining savory meat filling with creamy potatoes and crispy coating. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these balls are sure to be a hit with their comforting flavors and satisfying textures. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious treats with family and friends!
These Stuffed Meat Mashed Potato Balls are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. Enjoy the process of making and savoring these delightful bites!