Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

If you’re looking for a delicious snack that’s easy to whip up and a hit with everyone, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are truly a game changer. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes mixed with gooey cheese, all encased in a crispy golden shell. It’s comfort food at its finest! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these little bites of joy will have everyone asking for seconds.

I love making these cheesy potato balls when I want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re so simple to prepare and can be served with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have these tasty snacks ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness, making it a perfect choice for any family meal.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mashed potato mixture earlier in the day, roll them into balls, and air fry when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Pair these bites with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even your favorite spicy dip for added flavor.
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these potato balls an incredible crunch without the extra oil—guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. You probably have most of these items right in your kitchen!

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try to mix things up:

• Add some greens: Stir in some finely chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutritious boost.
• Spice it up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the potato mixture for a kick of heat.
• Switch up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a flavorful twist.
• Make it meaty: For those who enjoy meat, add some cooked crumbled turkey or chicken sausage into the mix.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you don’t already have mashed potatoes on hand, now’s the time to whip them up! Just make sure they’re chilled and firm because this helps shape our potato balls perfectly. Cooling them also enhances their flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine those chilled mashed potatoes with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything together until well combined is key; it ensures that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness!

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. This part is fun! Keep rolling until all the mixture is used up. Making sure they’re uniform helps them cook evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

Take your breadcrumbs and pour them into a shallow dish. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in those breadcrumbs until they are nicely coated. This step is crucial—it creates that irresistible crispy exterior we all crave!

Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray those potato balls with cooking spray or drizzle on a bit of olive oil for that perfect crunch. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd them! Cook for 8-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve

Once they’re done cooking, let those cheesy potato balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for an even more delicious treat! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls is a fun and rewarding experience, especially with these helpful tips!

• Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Starting with chilled mashed potatoes helps them hold their shape during frying. Warm potatoes can lead to mushy balls that fall apart.

• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Combining mozzarella with cheddar or even adding some spicy pepper jack can create a delightful flavor explosion.

• Don’t Skip the Breadcrumbs: A good coating of breadcrumbs ensures a crispy outer layer. For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than regular ones.

• Air Fry in Batches: Overcrowding your air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. Fry the potato balls in small batches to ensure they get perfectly crispy all around.

• Adjust Cooking Time for Size: If you make larger or smaller potato balls, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time for that perfect golden-brown finish.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These cheesy mashed potato balls are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully at your next gathering or family meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Cheese: A light dusting of extra Parmesan or shredded cheese adds an appealing touch and enhances the cheesiness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings both color and spice.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesy potato balls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots complement the flavors perfectly while adding nutritional value.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an indulgent treat that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy goodness.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli for guests to choose from.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls will surely be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy a delicious snack or side dish whenever you crave it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking the balls on top of each other.

Freezing

• Allow the potato balls to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated potato balls in the air fryer basket (no need to thaw if frozen) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure they are chilled and firm before mixing with the other ingredients.

What type of cheese is best for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

You can use either shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, depending on your preference. Mixing both cheeses can also add extra flavor!

How do I make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls gluten-free?

To make these potato balls gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer excellent alternatives that work just as well!

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?

Yes! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the potato balls on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! They’re not only incredibly tasty but also versatile enough to fit into any meal plan. Whether as an appetizer or a comforting side dish, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!