Description
Indulge in a savory twist on a classic snack with Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Fries. This innovative recipe transforms simple mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy delight that’s perfect as a stand-alone snack or a side dish. With a golden exterior and a soft, cheesy center, these fries merge the comforting goodness of mashed potatoes with the indulgent texture of crispy frying.
Ingredients
- 3 medium russet potatoes, washed, peeled, and cut
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the russet potatoes and slicing them into uniform pieces. Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
2. Mash and Mix
Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes until smooth using a potato masher, then mix in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, and cornstarch.
3. Shape and Chill
Spread the mashed potato mixture into an 8 x 10-inch rectangle on waxed paper, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare for Frying
Heat a Dutch oven or deep pot with 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Cut and Fry
Once chilled, cut the potato rectangle into fries. Fry batches of 3-5 fries at a time until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Use tongs to turn them for even cooking.
6. Drain and Serve
Transfer the fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
Servings & Preparation Time
Total Preparation Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes chilling time). Serves: 4-6 people as a side dish.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may result in soggy fries.
Conclusion
These Crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Fries offer a delicious and inventive use of mashed potatoes. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy evening snack, or a unique side dish for dinners, these fries combine the comforting richness of cheese and potatoes with a satisfying crunch. For added flavor, consider experimenting with various cheeses or adding herbs like chives or parsley to the mixture. Enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful dish!