Nothing screams comfort food like golden, crispy, cheesy bites filled with creamy mashed potatoes and hearty cabbage. The Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe elevates traditional Irish colcannon into a fun, bite-sized appetizer that melts in your mouth. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, cozy family dinners, or even party platters, this dish delivers flavor, texture, and nostalgia in every bite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Imagine taking your favorite creamy mashed potatoes, blending in fresh greens, and encasing it all in a crispy golden crust. The result? A savory delight that’s crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside, and packed with the earthy, subtle sweetness of cabbage.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a home chef looking to impress, this Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe is easy to make, customizable, and utterly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe
Crispy & Cheesy: Each bite boasts a crunchy exterior with melty cheddar inside.
Comfort Food Classic: Mashed potatoes and cabbage, reinvented as finger food.
Quick & Easy: With a few simple ingredients, this recipe takes under an hour.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like potatoes, cabbage, and cheese.
Party-Ready: Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or game-day platters.
Customizable: Swap cheddar for gouda, add bacon, or make them gluten-free.
Kid-Friendly: Fun finger food that picky eaters love.
Leftover Magic: Transform leftover colcannon into these golden balls effortlessly.
Ingredients for Cheesy Colcannon Balls
Main Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (cold and firm)
1 cup finely shredded green cabbage or kale (lightly sautéed)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Breading & Frying
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Vegetable oil for frying
Pro Tips on Ingredients:
Use cold, day-old mashed potatoes to ensure your balls hold shape.
Choose sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, or mix cheeses for a gourmet twist.
For healthier options, try baking instead of frying for golden crispiness without excess oil.
Experiment with herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage or kale, green onions, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix thoroughly until uniform.
Science Tip: Cold mashed potatoes prevent balls from collapsing, while cheese binds ingredients and adds moisture and flavor.
2. Shape the Balls
Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form golf ball-sized portions. Place on a tray and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to coat and fry.
3. Set Up the Breading Station
Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. This triple-layer coating ensures an even, crispy crust.
4. Bread the Balls
Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip into eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure every surface is fully covered.
5. Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a stable temperature; too hot and balls burn, too cool and they absorb oil.
6. Fry the Balls
Cook in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve
Serve warm with sour cream, mustard sauce, or a creamy garlic dip for maximum flavor impact.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Colcannon Balls
How do you prevent the balls from falling apart?
Use cold, firm mashed potatoes.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
Can you bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely! Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a lined sheet for 20–25 minutes until golden, turning halfway.
What’s the best cheese for colcannon balls?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but try gouda, gruyère, or mozzarella blends for a melty, flavorful experience.
Best Ways to Serve
As an appetizer: Perfect for party platters or holiday gatherings.
With dips: Sour cream, mustard, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup.
For brunch: Pair with eggs or a fresh salad for a hearty breakfast.
Family dinners: Serve alongside roasted meats or creamy soups for a complete meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Balls)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Tip: Use low-fat cheese or bake instead of frying to reduce calories.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Flash-freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 5–7 minutes.
FAQs About Cheesy Colcannon Balls
How do you keep colcannon balls crispy after frying?
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Avoid stacking; allow air circulation.
Can I make them vegan?
Substitute cheese with vegan cheddar, use flax eggs, and bake instead of fry.
Are colcannon balls gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
How can I make them extra flavorful?
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or finely chopped herbs to the mixture.
Mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
Variations
Baked Cheesy Colcannon Balls: Healthier, less oil, still golden and crispy.
Irish Cheesy Colcannon Balls: Add traditional Irish butter and chives for authenticity.
Gourmet Version: Mix in gruyère, caramelized onions, or a hint of truffle oil.
Spicy Twist: Add finely chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
Mini Bites: Perfect for cocktail parties or kids’ lunchboxes.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe transforms humble mashed potatoes into a golden, cheesy, irresistible delight. Crispy outside, soft inside, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect comfort food or festive appetizer.