These Cheesy Potato Balls in Creamy Tomato-Garlic Sauce are the perfect cozy comfort food—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and smothered in a rich, savory sauce. Made with creamy mashed potatoes and filled with chunks of hard cheese, each ball is pan-fried to golden perfection before being simmered in a silky tomato-based cream sauce infused with garlic and soy sauce. Finished with a bubbly cheese topping and paprika, then briefly baked, these indulgent bites are ideal as a main dish, appetizer, or party platter favorite.
This recipe combines Eastern European comfort with global flavor, making it an exciting yet approachable dish. Each bite delivers crunch, creaminess, and depth of flavor. Serve these warm and melty potato balls with a garnish of spring onions, and you’ve got a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
1 hour
Yield
4 servings
Cuisine
Comfort fusion (Eastern European meets creamy Italian-style sauces)
Ingredients
For the Potato Balls:
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3–4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
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Salt and pepper to taste
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100 g hard cheese, cut into small cubes (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella)
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Vegetable oil, for fryingFor the Sauce:
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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50 ml water
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200 ml cream (20–30% fat)
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2–3 garlic cloves, finely minced
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50 g grated cheese (for topping)
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½ tsp paprika
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Spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain and mash them while warm. Let cool slightly.
Season with salt and pepper, and let the mashed potatoes rest in the fridge for easier shaping.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Scoop a portion of mashed potato and flatten it into your palm.
Place a small cube of cheese in the center, then close the potato around it, forming a tight ball. Repeat until all the mashed potatoes are used.
Step 3: Fry the Balls
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Fry each potato ball for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, remove excess oil, leaving just a thin layer.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, and water. Mix well.
Pour in the cream, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly.
Step 5: Simmer the Potato Balls in Sauce
Add the fried potato balls into the sauce. Gently stir to coat each ball evenly.
Sprinkle with grated cheese, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until the cheese begins to melt.
Step 6: Bake for a Golden Finish
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Remove the lid, sprinkle paprika over the top, and transfer the pan (if oven-safe) or contents to a baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped spring onions.
Serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or a light side salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
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Calories: 410
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Protein: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fat: 26g
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Saturated Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 620mg
Origin and Popularity
These stuffed potato balls are inspired by European croquettes and Slavic-style comfort dishes. Combining familiar elements like mashed potatoes and creamy sauces with global flavors like soy sauce and paprika, this dish is modern yet nostalgic. It’s increasingly popular in home kitchens for its versatility, presentation, and universal appeal.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
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Crispy outside, gooey inside with a melty cheese core.
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Crowd-pleasing comfort food ideal for family dinners or parties.
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Versatile: Serve as a main course, appetizer, or side dish.
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Make-ahead friendly: Potato balls can be prepared in advance.
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Satisfying and filling, but with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
Health Benefits
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High in Potassium: Potatoes offer essential minerals.
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Calcium-Rich: Cheese and cream contribute to bone health.
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Protein from Dairy and Garlic: Adds muscle-building and immune-supporting benefits.
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Low Sugar: No added sugars, only natural sweetness from tomato.
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Comfort Food Without Excess: Pan-fried, not deep-fried.
Serving Suggestions
These creamy cheese potato balls are best served hot and fresh from the oven. Pair them with:
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A simple arugula or cucumber salad
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Garlic bread or flatbread
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Roasted vegetables for a full vegetarian meal
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A dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side
Great for sharing on game day, serving as a tapas-style bite, or enjoying as a hearty vegetarian dinner.
Cooking Tips
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Chill the mashed potatoes before shaping for easier handling.
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Use semi-hard cheese that melts well and holds its shape.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to keep them crispy.
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Deglaze the pan after frying to boost sauce flavor.
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Adjust sauce thickness with more water or cream as needed.
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the potato mixture.
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Bacon Bits: Mix crisped bacon into the mash for smoky flavor.
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Vegetarian Upgrade: Add finely chopped mushrooms or herbs.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit entirely.
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Air Fryer Friendly: Air-fry the balls at 200°C for 10–12 minutes before saucing.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Potato Balls in Creamy Tomato-Garlic Sauce are the definition of comforting, satisfying, and elegant home-cooked food. Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing a special family dinner, or looking to elevate your weeknight menu, this recipe will deliver. The crispy exterior, melty cheese core, and luscious sauce come together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that warms your home, your belly, and your heart—every single time.
FAQ
1. Can I make the potato balls in advance?
Yes! Shape and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. Can I freeze the balls?
Yes, freeze before frying and cook straight from frozen (extend cook time slightly).
3. What cheese works best?
Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for maximum melt and flavor.
4. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes—bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, turning halfway.
5. How spicy is this dish?
Mild by default—add chili flakes or cayenne for more heat.
6. Is the sauce gluten-free?
Yes, but check your soy sauce or use tamari for a GF version.
7. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of cornstarch to thicken if needed.
8. What herbs can I use instead of spring onions?
Parsley, chives, or dill work well.
9. How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
Make sure your mash is firm, and chill them before frying.
10. What else can I add to the filling?
Chopped ham, herbs, cooked veggies, or caramelized onions.