Cheese Stuffed Potato Balls

Ingredients:

• 5 medium-sized Idaho® potatoes or use about 3 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 4 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup organic spinach, finely chopped
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 ounces mild or sharp cheddar cheese cut into equal-sized cubes
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 2 cups oil for frying (I like to use avocado or grapeseed oil)

Instructions:

(Skip to step 3 if using leftover mashed potatoes)

1. Place whole potatoes in a medium-sized pot and fill with water. Bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are soft inside when you insert a knife, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and let cool. Peel potatoes and grate. 
3. In a large bowl combine 3 cups of grated or mashed potatoes, bacon pieces, spinach, eggs, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder.
4. Using a small ice cream scoop place one scoop of mashed potato mixture into your hand, top with one cheese cube and then add another scoop of potato mixture on top.
5. Form a ball and roll in panko bread crumbs.
6. Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Deep fry until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.