Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy on the inside. They’re a perfect snack or side dish that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat. Enjoy the comforting flavors with less oil using your air fryer.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Cooking spray or a little olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Step 2: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Place the beaten egg in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another. Dip each potato ball into the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
4. Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
5. Step 5: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potato balls are golden and crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, marinara, or sour cream.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
• Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the potato mixture for added freshness.
• You can substitute the shredded cheese with a mix of your favorites, such as pepper jack or gouda, to change the flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of chilled?

It’s best to use chilled and firm mashed potatoes to help the balls hold their shape and crisp up better. Fresh mashed potatoes that are still warm may be too soft and sticky to shape easily.

Can these be baked instead of air fried?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 110 reviews

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Made with mashed potatoes mixed with mozzarella, Parmesan, and flavorful seasonings, then coated with breadcrumbs and air fried to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12–15 potato balls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potato Mixture

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Coating

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Cooking spray or a little olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is uniform.
2. Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into approximately 1.5-inch diameter balls. If the mixture feels too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up, making shaping easier.
3. Coat the Balls: Place the beaten egg in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another. Dip each potato ball first into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until completely covered with a crunchy layer.
4. Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each to allow even air circulation.
5. Cook the Balls: Air fry the potato balls at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake or gently turn the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides become golden and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the cheesy mashed potato balls from the air fryer once crispy and browned. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or sour cream for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Use chilled and firm mashed potatoes to prevent the balls from falling apart during shaping and cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
• Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
• You can prepare these balls ahead of time, freeze them on a baking sheet, then air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.

Keywords: air fryer mashed potato balls, cheesy mashed potato bites, crispy potato appetizers, easy snack, air fryer recipes