Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and filled with gooey, melty cheese—these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are pure comfort food in bite-sized form. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re quick to make and the perfect way to give leftover mashed potatoes a delicious makeover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer creates a golden, crunchy shell without deep frying.
- Cheesy Center: Every bite has a surprise burst of melty cheese.
- Great for Leftovers: A fun and creative way to use up mashed potatoes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Whisk or fork
- 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
Step 1 – Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2 – Shape the Balls
Use your hands or a cookie scoop to roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. If too sticky, chill for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3 – Coat the Balls
Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Press gently so the crumbs stick.
Step 4 – Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray, then arrange the potato balls in a single layer with space between them. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5 – Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or sour cream.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Mixture: Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better.
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack for spice or gouda for a creamy twist.
- Batch Cooking: Keep finished potato balls warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven if making a large batch.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to bring back crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
FAQ
Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
Definitely—shape and coat the balls, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes! Follow the freezing instructions above for a quick snack anytime.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: ~180
Crispy, Cheesy Perfection
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate snack—crispy, cheesy, and so satisfying. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast, so don’t be surprised if you need to make a double batch!