Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes!
- Crispy & Golden: The air fryer ensures a perfect crunchy exterior without the need for deep frying.
- Cheesy Surprise: Each bite delivers a burst of melty cheese.
- Great for Leftovers: A creative way to transform leftover mashed potatoes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Description
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with gooey, cheesy goodness! Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!
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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
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
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.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
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.
Step 4: Preheat and Arrange
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.
Step 5: Cook the Balls
5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potato balls are golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
6. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, marinara, or sour cream.
Notes
- Chill the Mixture: Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better, making it easier to form the balls.
- Cheese Options: Try mixing in pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a creamy flavor.
- Even Coating: Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the balls to ensure a consistent crunch.
- Batch Cooking: If making a large batch, keep cooked balls warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while finishing the rest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Q2: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Form the balls, coat them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q3: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes! Freeze uncooked potato balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.
Conclusion: Crispy, Cheesy Perfection!
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food snack. They’re quick, easy, and full of cheesy goodness, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Give them a try, and watch them disappear in no time!
Did you try this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 8g
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights—they’re impossible to resist!
