Cheesy Colcannon Balls are like little flavor bombs bursting with warm, cheesy goodness! Imagine digging into a crispy exterior only to unveil a soft, creamy center flavored with buttery mashed potatoes, sharp cheese, and vibrant green onions. Texas Trash Dip These delightful bites are not just a side dish; they are the life of the party, perfect for sharing or indulging in solo while binge-watching your favorite show.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cheesy Colcannon Balls
- How to Make Cheesy Colcannon Balls
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
- How do I make Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
- Can I freeze Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
- What can I serve with Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
- Conclusion for Cheesy Colcannon Balls :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you on a culinary journey that spins back to my childhood. Picture this: my mother whisking up a storm in the kitchen after a long day, her apron dusted with flour and mashed potato remnants. She would whip up colcannon, an Irish classic, but I always dreamed of transforming it into something more playful. That’s how these Cheesy Colcannon Balls were born—ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings where everyone can enjoy a crispy treat together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cheesy Colcannon Balls offer an easy way to enjoy traditional flavors with a modern twist.
- Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by creamy cheese and potatoes that melt in your mouth.
- Visually appealing with their golden brown crusts, these balls look great on any table.
- Perfect for parties or as a comforting snack during movie nights at home.
Ingredients for Cheesy Colcannon Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for that fluffy texture ideal for mashing.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose high-quality cheese for robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enrich the creamy mashed potato mix.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work best for achieving that crunchy outer layer when frying.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping all ingredients stick together nicely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Colcannon Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and boil until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain them well and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Mash It Up
In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes with butter, salt, pepper, and mash until smooth. You want it creamy but not runny—so channel your inner potato whisperer!
Step 3: Add Flavor
Mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely chopped green onions into the mashed potato mixture until evenly distributed. The melty cheese will be your hidden treasure inside each ball!
Step 4: Form the Balls
Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you prefer), shape the mixture into balls about two inches in diameter. Roll each ball gently so they hold together well.
Step 5: Coat Them
Prepare two bowls—one with beaten eggs and another filled with breadcrumbs. Dip each ball first into the egg wash then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated to ensure that perfect crunch.
Step 6: Fry Away!
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Fry the colcannon balls in batches until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels before serving.
Serve them hot as appetizers or alongside your favorite main dishes; don’t forget to dip them into some tangy sauce for added flavor! Enjoy these little delights as they never fail to impress both kids and adults alike!
You Must Know
- These cheesy colcannon balls are not just a snack; they are a delightful fusion of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese.
- Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, they add a fun twist to traditional Irish fare, making every bite a celebration.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender. While they cook, sauté some scallions in butter for that aromatic kick. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them with the scallions and mix in the cheese. Form into balls and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorites like cheddar or pepper jack. Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch or toss in some herbs for an extra flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy colcannon balls, ensure your potatoes are well-drained after boiling to avoid sogginess.
- Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping.
- Bake them on parchment paper to prevent sticking without extra oil.
Sometimes I whip these cheesy colcannon balls up when friends come over, and their delighted faces remind me why I love cooking – it’s all about sharing joy! Tater Tot Pizza Casserole.
FAQs :
What are Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
Cheesy Colcannon Balls are a delicious twist on the traditional Irish dish, colcannon. This dish typically combines mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale, but in ball form, it becomes a fun and tasty appetizer. The addition of cheese creates a gooey, flavorful center that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly. Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes These bites are ideal for parties, game nights, or even as a side dish. With their crispy exterior and cheesy interior, they are sure to impress your guests.
How do I make Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
To make Cheesy Colcannon Balls, start by boiling your potatoes until tender. Mash them and mix in cooked cabbage or kale along with shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Once well combined, shape the mixture into balls and coat them in breadcrumbs. Fry or bake until golden brown. This simple process allows you to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Can I freeze Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
Yes! You can freeze Cheesy Colcannon Balls for later enjoyment. After shaping the balls but before cooking them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw; simply fry or bake from frozen until golden brown and heated through.
What can I serve with Cheesy Colcannon Balls?
Cheesy Colcannon Balls pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a balanced meal. For an Irish-themed gathering, consider serving them with other traditional dishes such as shepherd’s pie or Irish stew to create a festive atmosphere.
Conclusion for Cheesy Colcannon Balls :
Cheesy Colcannon Balls offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that elevate the classic Irish dish into a fun appetizer. With their crispy exterior and melty cheese inside, these bites are perfect for any gathering. They are easy to prepare, can be frozen for convenience, and pair well with various dips and sides. Whether you serve them at parties or enjoy them as a comforting snack at home, these cheesy delights will surely become a favorite in your household!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cheesy Colcannon Balls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Colcannon Balls are a delightful twist on the classic Irish dish, merging crunchy exteriors with creamy, cheesy interiors. Each golden-brown bite is filled with buttery mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. These crowd-pleasing snacks are perfect for parties or cozy movie nights, offering an irresistible combination of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups starchy potatoes (Russets), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mash the potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in shredded cheese and chopped green onions until evenly mixed.
- Shape the mixture into balls about 2 inches in diameter.
- Dip each ball into beaten egg and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F) and fry the balls until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
