Description
Crispy Mozzarella Potato Fries feature fluffy mashed potatoes mixed with melted mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and fresh parsley, then coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fried until golden brown. These irresistible fries are perfect for parties, appetizers, or a fun snack that tastes restaurant-quality yet comes together quickly at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed until smooth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for that classic cheesy pull
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, helps bind and adds crispness
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped for freshness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for savory depth
- 1 teaspoon paprika, adds mild heat and color
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- All-purpose flour, for the first coating layer
- 2 eggs, beaten for the egg wash
- 1 cup Panko or regular breadcrumbs, mixed with 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Oil for frying, vegetable or canola oil works best
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Boil and Mash Potatoes: Boil 3 medium potatoes until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes, then drain and mash until completely smooth with no lumps remaining.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with mozzarella cheese, cornstarch, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the mixture onto a parchment paper-lined tray or cutting board, shape it into a thick rectangle about 1/2-inch high, and freeze for at least 1 hour or until completely firm.
- Cut into Strips: Remove the frozen potato rectangle from the freezer and cut it into fry-shaped strips about 1/2-inch wide and 3-4 inches long using a sharp knife.
- Set Up Coating Station: Arrange three shallow bowls with flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with dried parsley in the third.
- Coat Each Fry: Working with one fry at a time, coat it thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered on all sides.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches and heat over medium heat until a thermometer reads 350°F, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place the coated fries into the hot oil in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overcrowding, and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fries with a slotted spoon or spider strainer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve immediately while still hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes