Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

If you’re searching for a perfect bite-sized snack that’s crowd-pleasing, comforting, and wonderfully crispy, these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls will quickly become your go-to. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes wrapped around gooey cheese, all cloaked in a golden, crunchy shell—yet made with hardly any oil thanks to your air fryer! Each little ball delivers nostalgic flavors with a deliciously modern (and mess-free) twist.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The real magic of Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls is that they require just a handful of straightforward ingredients—each one playing an important role in the final dish. Gather these basics, and you’ll have everything you need to create the perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

• Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Use cold, firm mashed potatoes for balls that hold their shape and fry evenly.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings gooey texture and an addictive cheesiness in every bite.
• Green Onions: These add a zippy freshness and tiny pops of color throughout the potato mixture.
• All-Purpose Flour: A light coating helps the mashed potato balls keep their shape.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the glue, ensuring the breadcrumb coating sticks beautifully.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds that ultimate crispiness that makes each bite so satisfying.
• Salt and Pepper: To highlight all the savory flavors you’ve packed inside.
• Cooking Spray: A light spritz ensures even browning and goldenness in the air fryer.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, a generous pinch of salt, and a little black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed—don’t be shy about tasting for seasoning! The mash should be thick and stiff, not runny, so it easily holds its shape.

Step 2: Scoop and Shape

Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to portion out the mixture. Flatten each portion in your hand, tuck a little extra cheese in the center if you love that cheesy pull, then roll into a compact ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, lining up your potato balls on a tray or plate.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Working one at a time, roll each potato ball first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat completely with panko. This triple-layer transforms into an irresistible crunch in the air fryer!

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the basket, giving them a little space so they crisp up on all sides. Lightly spritz with cooking spray for even browning. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the balls are golden brown and crunchy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once cooked, let the Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls cool for a minute before serving—they’re molten hot inside! Arrange them on a platter, add any dips you love, and watch them disappear in minutes.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Garnishes

Top your potato balls with a sprinkle of extra green onions, fresh parsley, or even a dusting of grated Parmesan for a final flourish of color and flavor. If you want to dial up the decadence, a light drizzle of ranch or your favorite creamy sauce will do the trick!

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls pair beautifully with any number of sides—think crisp salads, hearty soups, or even as a fun side for a grilled main. Their rich, cheesy center makes them filling, so light, tangy sides or steamed vegetables work especially well to balance things out.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile them high on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks, nestle them in mini cupcake liners for a party, or serve them in a giant bowl as the centerpiece of an appetizer spread. If you’re feeling adventurous, offer an assortment of dips like smoky chipotle mayo, classic ketchup, or garlicky aioli to make each bite a mini flavor adventure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a fantastic snack for the next day.

Freezing

These little bites freeze wonderfully! To freeze, arrange fully breaded (but not yet fried) potato balls on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then pop them into a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months and can be cooked directly from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes in the air fryer.

Reheating

For best results, pop leftover Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-6 minutes, or until hot and crispy. You can also reheat them in the oven, but avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crunchy exterior intact.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! As long as the mashed potatoes are thick and not too watery, instant works well for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. Just be sure they’re completely cooled before shaping into balls.

What cheeses work best inside the mashed potato balls?

Cheddar is classic for flavor and meltiness, but feel free to get creative—mozzarella creates that stretchy cheese pull, while Monterey Jack or pepper jack add a zippy twist! Blend two cheeses together for extra fun.

Do I have to use panko breadcrumbs?

Panko offers the crispiest coating, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, crush up gluten-free crackers or use gluten-free panko.

Can these be made ahead for parties?

Definitely! Prep and bread the potato balls, then refrigerate them for up to one day before air frying. You can also freeze them ahead as noted above—cook straight from frozen for quick, easy party snacks.

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

These are dunk-tastic with ranch, sour cream and chive dip, spicy aioli, marinara, or even sweet chili sauce. Set out a selection and let everyone find their favorite!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a snack that’s supremely cheesy, perfectly crisp, and just plain fun to eat, don’t wait another minute—whip up these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! They’re easy enough for a weekday treat, special enough for a party, and sure to become a staple in your snack rotation. Give them a try and see how quickly they disappear!

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