Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Looking for a creative way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something even more delicious? These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect answer! Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, these little bites are a game-changer for your snack or appetizer spread. By using the air fryer, you get a crunchy, golden exterior without the guilt of deep frying. This recipe is simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying—a perfect way to use up those mashed potatoes while enjoying a tasty treat!

The combination of fluffy mashed potatoes, gooey mozzarella or cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating creates a mouthwatering contrast of textures in every bite. Plus, the air fryer ensures that these potato balls cook evenly and quickly, giving you that perfect crunch without the extra calories. Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a side dish, or simply as a snack, these cheesy mashed potato balls will soon become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and the help of an air fryer, these cheesy mashed potato balls come together in no time. Perfect for a quick snack or a last-minute appetizer.

2. Crispy and Creamy

The air fryer ensures a perfect crispy coating, while the inside remains soft, creamy, and loaded with gooey cheese. It’s the ultimate combination of textures!

3. Customizable

Feel free to swap the cheeses or add extra seasonings to fit your taste. You can even stuff them with bacon bits, herbs, or any other filling you like.

4. Perfect for Leftovers

This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning them into a delicious new dish without waste.

5. Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying

By using an air fryer, you achieve the same crispy result as deep frying but with less oil and fewer calories, making these potato balls a healthier option.

Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg (beaten)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Variations

• Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the mashed potatoes for an added layer of flavor.
• Bacon: For an extra savory kick, add crumbled cooked bacon to the mashed potato mixture.
• Spicy Option: Mix in a little hot sauce or finely diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Ensure that your mashed potatoes are chilled and firm. If they’re too soft or creamy, the balls won’t hold together properly. If necessary, place them in the fridge for an hour to firm up.

Step 2: Make the Mixture

In a bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten egg to bind the mixture together.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Take small portions of the potato mixture and roll them into 1-2 inch balls. The mixture should make about 12-15 balls, depending on the size.

Step 4: Coat the Balls

Dip each mashed potato ball into the breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated. You can use either panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs for a softer coating.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Air Fry the Potato Balls

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the mashed potato balls in the basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Spray the tops lightly with more cooking spray for a golden finish. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve

Once the potato balls are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Mashed Potatoes: Make sure the mashed potatoes are firm and chilled to help the balls hold their shape while cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best crispy texture, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Spray Lightly with Oil: A light spray of oil helps to achieve that crispy, golden exterior without excessive calories.
• Breadcrumb Variations: Panko breadcrumbs will give you a crunchier texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if you prefer a softer bite.
• Taste Test: Before rolling into balls, taste the mashed potato mixture to adjust seasonings and ensure the flavor is just right.

How to Serve

Serve these cheesy mashed potato balls as an appetizer or side dish at your next dinner or party. Pair them with dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or sour cream for an extra flavor boost. They’re also a great addition to a snack table or as a fun treat for kids and adults alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mashed potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked mashed potato balls for later use. After forming them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months. To cook, air fry from frozen at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftover mashed potato balls in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe?

For best results, it’s recommended to use chilled, firm mashed potatoes to ensure the balls hold their shape during cooking.

2. Can I make these mashed potato balls in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

3. Can I make these without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a more simple version or if you want a vegan alternative.

4. Can I freeze the mashed potato balls before cooking?

Absolutely! Freeze them after shaping and before coating in breadcrumbs. Once frozen, store them in a zip-top bag and cook from frozen when you’re ready.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover mashed potato balls?

Store leftover mashed potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. Even blue cheese or pepper jack can add a fun twist.

7. How do I keep the potato balls from falling apart?

Make sure the mashed potatoes are firm and chilled, and don’t skip the egg as it helps bind everything together.

8. Are these mashed potato balls spicy?

They’re not inherently spicy, but you can add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the mixture if you’d like some heat.

9. Can I use an air fryer with a smaller basket?

Yes, just make sure to cook the balls in batches if necessary, so they cook evenly and get crispy.

10. Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Use vegan cheese and breadcrumbs, and omit the egg or substitute with a flax egg or a non-dairy binder.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect crispy, cheesy, and savory snack or side dish. With their golden, crunchy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior, they’re bound to be a hit. Whether you’re using up leftover mashed potatoes or just in the mood for something indulgent, these potato balls are quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Make them in the air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying, and enjoy a guilt-free treat!

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