Description
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are irresistibly crispy on the outside and gooey with melted cheese on the inside. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and come together quickly for a tasty appetizer or side dish. The air fryer gives them a golden crunch without the need for deep frying, making them lighter yet just as delicious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Potato Balls
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Air Frying
- Cooking spray or oil mister
Instructions
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chives (if using), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape into Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should get about 18-20 balls.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third. Roll each potato ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with panko, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for about 3 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Air Fry the Potato Balls: Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray or mist the tops with oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For best results, use cold, firm mashed potatoes; freshly made, hot mashed potatoes will be too soft to hold shape.
- Try different cheeses for flavor variations, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- If you donโt have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though the crunch may be less noticeable.
- Leftover potato balls can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 potato balls
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg