Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls combine the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the indulgent goodness of melted cheese, creating the perfect bite-sized treat. The air fryer makes them crisp on the outside while keeping the inside soft and gooey, without the extra oil of deep frying. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or a fun party appetizer.

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Ball

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

  • 1/4 cup flour (for coating)

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray (for air frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  3. Using your hands, form the mashed potato mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

  4. In a shallow dish, place the flour, and in another shallow dish, the beaten egg. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

  5. Roll each mashed potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.

  7. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other.

  8. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

  9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-14 potato balls, depending on the size. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick snack or appetizer.

Variations

  • Add Bacon: For a smoky twist, add crumbled bacon to the mashed potato mixture.

  • Spicy Version: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like parmesan, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack to customize the flavor.

  • Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and egg replacer to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover cheesy mashed potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a shortcut, but homemade mashed potatoes tend to provide a creamier texture.

2. Can I freeze the mashed potato balls?

Yes, you can freeze the balls before cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them for about 2 hours, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for about 15-18 minutes.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, and even pepper jack work well in this recipe.

4. Do I need to boil the potatoes before making these?

Yes, you’ll need to cook the potatoes before making mashed potatoes. Boil them until tender, then mash them up for the best texture.

5. How do I make the outside extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure you coat the balls thoroughly with breadcrumbs and spray the air fryer basket with oil to help them brown.

6. Can I add vegetables to the mashed potato mixture?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, corn, or peas to the mashed potato mix for added flavor and texture.

7. How can I make these spicy?

You can mix in some chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.

8. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato balls in advance, coat them, and refrigerate them for a few hours before air frying. This will save time when you’re ready to cook.

9. Can I use a deep fryer instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can deep fry these balls if you prefer, but keep in mind that the air fryer provides a healthier option with less oil.

10. How long should I cook the mashed potato balls in the air fryer?

Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a deliciously crispy and cheesy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients, a few easy steps, and the convenience of the air fryer, you’ll have a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether as a snack or side dish, these cheesy potato balls are sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Ball

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Ball

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  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Yield: 12-14 potato balls
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy, golden snack filled with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. These delicious, bite-sized treats are air fried to perfection, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these cheesy potato balls are sure to become a family favorite. Quick and easy to make, they offer a delightful comfort food experience with a cheesy twist.

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

1/4 cup green onions, chopped

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

1/4 cup flour (for coating)

1 egg, beaten

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil spray or cooking spray (for air frying)

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Using your hands, form the mashed potato mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

  • In a shallow dish, place the flour, and in another shallow dish, the beaten egg. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

  • Roll each mashed potato ball first in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.

  • Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.

  • Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

  • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Notes

  1. For a spicy version, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
  2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
  3. Freeze the balls before cooking for future use. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for 15-18 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Snack, Appetizer, Side Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

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