**Crispy Cheese-Stuffed Potato Balls (Cheese Pull Style)**
**Time**
* Prep: 30 minutes
* Cook: 15 minutes
* Total: ~45 minutes
**Makes**
* About 12–14 balls
**Ingredients**
**Potato Mixture**
* 2½ cups mashed potatoes (cold works best)
* ½ cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
* ¼ cup green onions (scallions), finely sliced
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
**Cheese Filling**
* 6–8 oz **cheddar cheese**, cut into small cubes
*(Mozzarella works too, or a cheddar-mozzarella mix for extra pull)*
**Breading Station**
* ½ cup all-purpose flour
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 1½ cups breadcrumbs or panko (panko = extra crunchy)
* ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
* ½ teaspoon salt
**For Frying**
* Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola)
**Instructions**
**Prepare the Potato Base**
In a large bowl, mix:
* Mashed potatoes
* Bacon
* Green onions
* Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
1. Mix until fully combined and firm enough to shape.
**Shape & Stuff**
1. Scoop about **2 tablespoons** of potato mixture.
2. Flatten it in your hand.
3. Place **1 cube of cheese** in the center.
4. Wrap the potato around the cheese and roll into a smooth ball.
5. Repeat until all mixture is used.
Tip: If the mixture feels sticky, chill the balls for 15 minutes.
**Bread the Balls**
Set up 3 bowls:
1. Flour
2. Beaten eggs
3. Breadcrumbs mixed with paprika & salt
For each ball:
1. Roll in flour
2. Dip in egg
3. Coat fully in breadcrumbs
For extra crunch: repeat egg + breadcrumbs once more.
**Fry**
1. Heat oil to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Fry balls in batches for **2–3 minutes**, turning until golden brown.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels…