Name: Crispy Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 3 (or 600g) potatoes; 3 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp dried oregano; 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish); Salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Neutral oil for frying; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 18 reviews

If you’re craving the ultimate snack that marries golden crunch with pillowy softness, let me introduce you to Crispy Potato Balls. These plant-based delights win hearts and tastebuds with every bite – think bold flavors from herbs and spices, a satisfyingly crispy shell, and a creamy, billowy inside. Paired with a zippy Sriracha mayo dip, they’re an irresistible appetizer for parties, lazy nights, or anytime you need some potato-powered joy.

Crispy Potato Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Crispy Potato Balls is refreshingly simple—everything has a vital role, from building that ultra-fluffy texture to seasoning every bite. The magic comes from high-impact flavor, a touch of fresh herbs, and the reliable magic of the humble potato.

Potatoes (3, about 600g): The star of the show—choose starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffy interiors and beautiful crisping.
Cornstarch (3 tbsp): Essential for binding and creating that signature crunch once fried.
Dried Oregano (2 tbsp): Adds savory, aromatic notes that lift the whole flavor profile.
Garlic Powder (2 tsp): For a rounded garlicky depth that doesn’t overpower.
Onion Powder (2 tsp): Brings gentle sweetness and boosts overall savoriness.
Smoked Paprika (2 tsp): Infuses subtle smokiness and enhances the visual appeal with a rich hue.
Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp): Delivers earthy warmth, making each bite extra cozy.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp plus extra): Lends freshness, color, and a touch of grassy flavor—don’t skip the garnish!
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Absolutely crucial, so season to taste for both flavor and balance.
Neutral Oil for Frying: Use a high-smoke-point oil like sunflower or canola for gorgeously crisp results without unwanted flavors.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy half of your dreamy dipping companion.
Sriracha Sauce (1/2 cup): Brings fiery tang and a gorgeous blush to your mayo dip—adjust to your heat preference!

How to Make Crispy Potato Balls

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it up to a good rolling boil. Add your peeled potatoes and simmer them until you can easily pierce through with a fork—this usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes. Once they’re perfectly tender, drain the potatoes, then return them to the hot, empty pot for a couple of minutes. This little steam bath helps evaporate excess moisture, making your Crispy Potato Balls extra fluffy and never soggy.

Step 2: Mash & Season the Potatoes

Transfer your warm, dry potatoes to a mixing bowl. Grab a potato masher or fork and get to work—mash until silky smooth with no lumps. Sprinkling in cornstarch at this stage does wonders for the structure, while the team of seasonings (oregano, garlic and onion powders, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper) brings warmth, vibrancy, and an aroma that’ll get anyone in the kitchen. Only stop when you have a cohesive dough that you can shape in your hands.

Step 3: Shape the Potato Balls

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of your seasoned potato mixture and roll it into a compact, smooth ball. Repeat this until you’ve used up every last fluffy bite of dough—you’ll end up with around 12 to 14 balls. Aim for consistency in size so they fry evenly and look extra inviting on your serving platter.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat several inches of neutral oil in a deep skillet or pot to 170°C (350°F). Gently lower the potato balls into the oil, working in batches to avoid crowding. Fry for 7 to 10 minutes, turning them now and then, until they’ve developed a golden, audibly crispy shell. As they finish, use a slotted spoon to move them to a plate lined with paper towels and give them a sprinkle of salt while still hot for the best flavor.

Step 5: Make the Sriracha Mayo

While those glorious potato balls cool ever so slightly, stir together mayo and Sriracha in a small bowl until perfectly smooth and sunset-colored. Taste and tweak the ratio to balance the creamy coolness with bright heat, making it just right for your palate.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Arrange the Crispy Potato Balls on your favorite platter. Shower them with a fresh grating of Parmesan (if you like) and extra parsley. Serve immediately, with that bold Sriracha mayo by the side, and prepare yourself for the chorus of crunches.

How to Serve Crispy Potato Balls

Garnishes

The finishing touches make these Crispy Potato Balls truly shine. Nothing beats a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for a savory hit, plus a scattering of extra chopped parsley for color and a whisper of freshness. A sprinkle of flaky salt just before serving brings everything to life.

Side Dishes

Crispy Potato Balls are delicious enough to be the star of any snack board, but they also play well with others. Pair them with a light salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, a platter of fresh crudités, or even a piping-hot cup of vegan tomato soup. They’re a versatile side for hearty burgers or a stellar addition to any party spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to surprise and delight, serve these potato balls skewered on bamboo picks for easy party munching, nestled into lettuce cups with pickled red onions, or as the crunchy crown atop a bowl of grain salad. Arrange them artfully, stack them high, or line the platter with your favorite dips—they’re as fun to serve as they are to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Potato Balls hold up beautifully for a couple of days. Place any extras in an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay good for up to three days. While they’ll lose a bit of their initial crunch, a quick reheat works wonders.

Freezing

If you want to get a jump on party prep, Crispy Potato Balls freeze like a dream. After shaping (but before frying), lay the balls on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to one month, ready for a quick fry whenever you crave.

Reheating

For maximum crispiness, reheat refrigerated or thawed potato balls in a hot oven or air fryer at 200°C (400°F) until sizzling and crisp again—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I make Crispy Potato Balls gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the use of cornstarch as a binder instead of any flour. Just double-check all labels on your spices and sauces to be safe.

Can I bake instead of fry the potato balls?

Yes, baking works for a slightly lighter version. Arrange balls on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake in a hot oven (220°C/425°F) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still wonderfully tasty.

How do I keep my potato balls from falling apart while frying?

Make sure the mashed potatoes are dry and thoroughly mashed, and use the full amount of cornstarch to bind everything together. Shape each ball firmly, and don’t crowd the fryer—otherwise, their delicate exteriors might split.

Can I substitute the Sriracha mayo with another dipping sauce?

Definitely! Crispy Potato Balls are the perfect canvas for creativity. Try classic ketchup, vegan aioli, a tangy chutney, or even herby tahini for an exciting twist.

What’s the best potato type for this recipe?

Starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal—they mash up fluffy and don’t get gluey, which is exactly what you want for that signature contrast between crisp exterior and soft center.

Final Thoughts

It’s honestly tough to stop at just one bite of these Crispy Potato Balls. They’re pure comfort, bursting with personality and crunch, and the kind of snack that brings everyone running to the kitchen. Give them a try—you won’t regret adding this delightful, crowd-pleasing recipe to your repertoire!