Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

If you’re looking for a snack that brings comfort and joy, look no further than these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines crispy, golden exteriors with gooey cheese centers. They make an incredible appetizer or a delightful side dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Every bite is a little piece of heaven!

These cheesy mashed potato balls are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. You can even prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to roll. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds (or thirds!)!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these tasty snacks ready in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, these cheesy bites are sure to please the whole family.
• Make Ahead: Prep the mashed potato mixture earlier in the day, then roll and fry them just before serving.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Pair these with your favorite sauces—ranch, marinara, or even a spicy aioli!
• Crispy Delight: The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without deep frying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have most of these 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and customize the flavors to suit your taste.

• Add Some Veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try using pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you don’t already have mashed potatoes ready to go, start by making them from scratch or using leftovers. Just remember to chill them in the fridge until they firm up! This step ensures that your potato balls hold their shape during cooking.

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; this creates that delicious cheesy filling we all love!

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

Now comes the fun part! Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball in your hands. Repeat this process until all of your mixture is used up. This step is important because it shapes our delicious snacks perfectly!

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

Grab a shallow dish and pour in your breadcrumbs. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in those breadcrumbs until they’re evenly coated—this will give them that irresistible crunch when air-fried!

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 a little olive oil on top. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 6: Serve

Once they’re done cooking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These cheesy mashed potato balls are best enjoyed warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. 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 breeze with these handy tips!

• Use Chilled Mashed Potatoes: Starting with chilled and firm mashed potatoes helps the balls hold their shape during cooking, ensuring they don’t fall apart in the air fryer.

• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While mozzarella and cheddar are delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or gouda for a smoky flavor. This adds a unique twist to each batch!

• Don’t Rush the Coating Process: Take your time when rolling the balls in breadcrumbs. A thorough coating not only adds crunch but also locks in moisture, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that your potato balls start cooking immediately, which helps achieve that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside gooey and cheesy.

• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: If you make smaller or larger balls, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller balls will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These cheesy delights can be presented in various delightful ways to impress family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Cheese: A light sprinkle of extra cheese right before serving adds an appealing touch and enhances the cheesy flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt Dollops: Adding a dollop on top gives a creamy contrast that complements the crispy texture.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the potato balls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add nutrition and vibrant flavors that pair beautifully.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup is comforting alongside these cheesy bites, making for a satisfying meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly, adding another layer of deliciousness to your table spread.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are not only a delicious treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy crispy, cheesy goodness whenever you crave it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potato balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for about 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Before freezing, ensure the potato balls are fully cooled.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful snacks, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls without egg?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce for binding.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls stay crispy?

To keep your potato balls crispy, make sure to preheat your air fryer and lightly coat the balls with cooking spray or oil before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket!

What type of cheese should I use for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

You can use mozzarella or cheddar cheese based on your preference. Both provide wonderful flavor and gooeyness!

Can I add other ingredients to my Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

Definitely! Feel free to add herbs like chives or parsley, or mix in some cooked veggies for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls as much as I do! They are not just a snack; they’re little bites of happiness that bring comfort and warmth. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer or pairing them with your favorite sauce, I’m sure they’ll be a hit! Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and savor every cheesy bite!