If you adore the comforting flavors of classic Irish colcannon but want to take it up a notch, then this Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe is going to become your new favorite snack or side dish. These golden, crispy delights are bursting with creamy mashed potatoes, tender cabbage, sharp cheddar, and a hint of green onion, all perfectly fried to crunchy perfection. They’re a fun, irresistible way to enjoy colcannon in a bite-sized form that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating the magic in these cheesy, crispy balls of comfort. Each component plays a crucial role—from the velvety mashed potatoes that provide creaminess, to the cabbage adding a subtle earthiness and bite, and the cheddar cheese delivering that gooey, melty punch of flavor. The green onions and breadcrumbs bring freshness and texture, rounding out this simple yet fantastic lineup.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Leftover or cooled mashed potatoes work best for binding and creaminess.
- 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped: Adds subtle crunch and an earthy flavor typical of traditional colcannon.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings that irresistible melty cheesiness; choose your favorite cheese if you like.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Offers freshness and a mild sharpness.
- 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating): Adds structure and crunch when fried.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the delicious flavors.
- Olive oil (for frying): Gives the balls their crispy golden crust.
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: For making a creamy, tangy dipping sauce.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a zesty kick to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped: Fresh and mild, perfect to brighten the dip.
- A pinch of salt and pepper: For seasoning the dipping sauce.
How to Make Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start with cool mashed potatoes, which help your colcannon balls hold their shape. Leftovers are perfect here, but if you’re making fresh, make sure to let them reach room temperature before proceeding. This prevents the mixture from becoming too sticky or difficult to handle.
Step 2: Mix the Colcannon Ingredients
In a big bowl, combine your mashed potatoes with finely chopped cabbage, shredded cheddar cheese, and the green onions. This trio captures the traditional colcannon flavors in a rich, flavorful base for the balls, setting the stage for a deliciously balanced bite.
Step 3: Bind the Mixture
Add the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper to your colcannon blend. Mix everything well until combined. If the mixture feels too wet, don’t hesitate to fold in a bit more breadcrumbs to make it manageable for shaping into balls. Getting the right texture here ensures they fry up beautifully.
Step 4: Shape the Balls and Coat
Pinch off small pockets of the mixture and roll them firmly into balls about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter—perfectly bite-sized. Then roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for an added layer of crispiness that will make your Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and hot. Carefully place your balls in the skillet in batches, giving them room to cook evenly. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, watching as they turn a stunning golden brown and develop a crispy exterior while staying soft and cheesy inside.
Step 6: Drain and Prep the Dipping Sauce
Once fried, transfer the colcannon balls to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. While they cool slightly, mix together your dipping sauce: combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt with Dijon mustard, fresh chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dip brings a tangy, herbaceous complement to your cheesy colcannon balls.
Step 7: Time to Serve!
Plate up your Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe while they’re still warm and crispy. Serve alongside the tangy dipping sauce and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds—or thirds!
How to Serve Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even finely sliced green onions sprinkled over the top not only add a pop of color but also elevate the flavors with a subtle freshness. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of garlic butter can also give your colcannon balls an extra special touch.
Side Dishes
These balls are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with fresh garden salads, roasted veggies, or even a simple bowl of soup for a comforting, hearty meal. They also work brilliantly as a side to grilled meats or a main dish for a cozy vegetarian feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For party settings, arrange your cheesy colcannon balls on a wooden board with assorted dipping sauces—think spicy aioli, honey mustard, or classic ketchup. You could even skewer them as bite-sized appetizers or serve them with a warm Irish stew for an authentic twist on tradition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some balls left over? No worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When chilled, their flavors meld nicely, but the texture may soften a bit. Simply re-crisp them before serving.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cheesy colcannon balls later, freeze them before frying. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from frozen, just increase the cooking time slightly.
Reheating
To revive your stored or frozen balls, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect crunchy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cook and mash your potatoes ahead of time, then let them cool completely before mixing. Warm potatoes can make the mixture too soft and harder to shape.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or any melting cheese you love. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile but maintain that wonderful gooey center.
Is it possible to bake the balls instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as frying but still delicious and a bit lighter.
Can I make these vegan-friendly?
To make a vegan version, use mashed potatoes made without dairy, swap the egg with a flax or chia egg, and pick a vegan cheese alternative. Use plant-based milk in your mashed potatoes as needed.
What is the best dipping sauce for these balls?
The classic sour cream and Dijon mustard dip in this recipe is a perfect match. However, creamy garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce also complement these Cheesy Colcannon Balls wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about transforming classic colcannon into these fun, crispy, cheesy bites. This Cheesy Colcannon Balls Recipe is perfect for cozy nights, casual parties, or anytime you want to impress friends with something familiar yet novel. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy an old Irish treasure!
