Fried Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 3 oz. cream cheese softened
• 2 tablespoon chives, chopped
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 cup flour
• vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Start heating a large, deep pot filled halfway with oil over medium heat until it reaches 350 degrees.
2. While the oil is heating, mix together the mashed potatoes, cream cheese, chives, one egg, parmesan cheese, the garlic powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Roll into balls about the size of a golf ball and set on a board.
4. In three bowls set out the bread crumbs, flour, and the other 2 eggs, beaten with a tablespoon of water.
5. Dip each mashed potato ball into the flour first, shaking off the excess, then into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off, and then last into the breadcrumbs.
6. Once your oil reaches about 350 degrees, start frying the balls in batches, not overcrowding the pot as you fry.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and then remove to a paper towel-lined board or plate.
8. While still warm, top with extra parmesan cheese.

Notes

You can keep these in the oven on low (250º) for about 30 minutes to an hour if you want to make them ahead of time.