Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 139 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 18-20 potato balls 1x
  • Category: Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for about 3 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  5. 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.
  6. 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 donโ€™t 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