Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy mashed potato balls are a delicious, crispy snack that perfectly combines creamy potatoes with gooey cheese. Made in the air fryer, they’re quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty—ideal for parties or a comforting appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Ensure the mashed potatoes are chilled and firm before starting.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the chilled mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Step 4: Coat each potato ball completely with breadcrumbs.
- Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the balls in a single layer in the basket.
- Step 6: Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway if needed.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated balls with cooking spray before air frying.
- Try adding chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the potato mixture for added flavor.
- Use different cheeses such as pepper jack or gouda to change the taste profile.
- If the mixture feels too soft to shape, chill it longer to firm up before rolling.
Storage
Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these potato balls without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through until golden and crispy.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, just make sure they are well chilled and firm before using.
PrintCheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer Recipe
Crispy and golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls made effortlessly in the air fryer. These bite-sized snacks combine creamy mashed potatoes with a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, then coated in crunchy breadcrumbs for a perfect appetizer or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Mashed 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 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes: Ensure your mashed potatoes are chilled and firm to make shaping easier.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture using a spoon or your hands and roll them into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Coat in breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until they are fully coated for a crispy exterior.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for a few minutes.
- Air fry the balls: Place the coated potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Spray them lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little olive oil to enhance browning. Air fry for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Notes
- For best results, use mashed potatoes that are well chilled to help the balls hold their shape.
- Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute the cheeses used based on your preference, but mozzarella and Parmesan provide a great melty and savory combination.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake these in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato balls, air fryer mashed potato snacks, crispy potato balls, cheesy potato appetizers, air fryer recipes, easy potato snacks
