Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
