Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

If you love comfort food with a fun twist, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! Imagine creamy mashed potatoes hugged by melted cheese, crisped up to golden perfection with just a hint of garlic and Parmesan. They’re an irresistible snack, a swoon-worthy party appetizer, or a new favorite way to transform your leftover mash. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra—these little bites vanish faster than you can say “just one more!”

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to create something dazzling—just a few staples come together in a way that truly lets every flavor shine. Each ingredient adds its own magic, whether it’s creamy texture, cheesy gooeyness, or craveable crunch.

  • Mashed potatoes (2 cups, chilled and firm): Use leftovers or make fresh the day before—cold, firm mash makes for the best shaping and crisping.
  • Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (1 cup): These are the heart of your gooey center, so choose your cheesy favorite!
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a rich, salty tang and helps crisp up the exterior.
  • Egg (1, beaten): This is the glue that keeps everything together.
  • Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Gives an extra savory kick that everyone will notice.
  • Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Deepens the flavor profile for irresistibly savory bites.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t skimp; potatoes love their seasoning!
  • Breadcrumbs (1 cup, panko or regular): For that signature crunchy, golden shell—panko delivers an especially shattering crunch.
  • Cooking spray or olive oil: A light spritz is all you need for air-fried magic; olive oil works for golden richness, too.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you already have mashed potatoes chilling in your fridge, you’re ahead of the game! If not, simply whip up a fresh batch—bonus points for using Yukon golds or russets—and let them cool and firm up. The key is chilled mash, which shapes up beautifully and crisps well in the air fryer. Don’t skip this step; warm, fluffy potatoes just won’t hold together.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Grab your largest mixing bowl and combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to bring everything together until the mixture feels cohesive and speckled with cheesy goodness. It should be thick enough to roll, but if it’s too soft, pop it back into the fridge for a few minutes.

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

Scoop out roughly a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it gently between your palms to make a ball—think about the size of a large grape or cherry tomato. Place the finished balls on a tray as you go. This step is perfect for little helping hands if you have kids in the kitchen!

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

Pour your breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Gently roll each potato ball through the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so every surface is covered. This is your secret to that deeply satisfying crunch when you bite in!

Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the balls in a single layer in the basket—give them plenty of space for even crisping. A quick mist of cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil helps them turn a stunning golden brown. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until each Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Ball is crispy and glorious.

Step 6: Serve

Let these beauties cool for a few minutes so you don’t scorch your tastebuds in your excitement! Pile them high on a platter alongside dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or classic marinara. Enjoy the moment when golden crispiness gives way to hot, cheesy potato bliss.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls with a sprinkle of fresh chives, parsley, or extra Parmesan for color and a burst of freshness. A light dusting of smoked paprika or chili flakes gives a pop of flavor and gorgeous visual appeal. Don’t forget an extra grind of black pepper!

Side Dishes

These cheesy potato bites play well with so many sides. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or as a hearty companion to grilled chicken, steak, or even soup. They’re guaranteed to steal the show as a party appetizer, too.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls into a big bowl for casual snacking, or spear them with cocktail picks on a serving platter for a crowd. Try serving with an assortment of dips—think pesto, smoky aioli, or spicy ketchup—for a choose-your-own-adventure appetizer everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls can be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to keep them from getting soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the shaped, uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to cook, roll in breadcrumbs and air fry straight from frozen—you may need an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

Reheating

To re-crisp leftovers, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until hot throughout. They’ll be nearly as crunchy as fresh, and much tastier than microwaving!

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Just be sure to prepare them thick and let them chill until firm. Homemade mash has a bit more texture and flavor, but instant works beautifully for this recipe.

What’s the best cheese for these potato balls?

Mozzarella brings dreamy stretchiness, while cheddar adds bold flavor. Feel free to experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even a spicy blend if you like things with a little kick!

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, you can! Bake on a lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as shatteringly crisp as the air-fried version, but still delicious.

How do I keep the balls from falling apart?

Cold, firm mash is key, as is beating the egg thoroughly into the mixture. If your mixture feels too soft or sticky, chill for 30 minutes before rolling into balls and breading.

What dips go best with Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

Classic ranch and marinara are always a hit, but don’t stop there! Try a garlicky sour cream, Sriracha mayo, or smoky chipotle sauce to take your cheesy potato balls to the next level.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and crunch in one irresistible bite, it’s time to try these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd favorite—so go ahead, make a batch (or two) and savor every golden, cheesy bite!

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe


  • Author: Chloe
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Makes about 20 potato balls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese, all air-fried to crispy perfection.


Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)

Cheese Blend:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Additional Ingredients:

  • 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

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If you don’t already have mashed potatoes, prepare them ahead of time and allow them to cool and firm up in the fridge.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  3. Form the Potato Balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
  4. Coat the Potato Balls: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s evenly coated.
  5. Air Fry the Potato Balls: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the potato balls with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  6. Serve: Let the potato balls cool for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the potato mixture.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends for unique variations.
  • Make sure the potato balls are well-coated with breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy exterior.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Air Fry
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 potato ball
  • Calories: 80
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Air Fryer Potato Balls, Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, Appetizer Recipe, Snack Recipe

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