Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy, cheesy, and indulgent snack or side dish. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in. With a creamy mashed potato filling and a crunchy exterior, these little delights offer the ultimate comfort food experience. Plus, they’re super easy to make in an air fryer, ensuring a healthier option without sacrificing flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these potato balls a delightful crunch without the need for deep frying.
• Cheesy Goodness: Filled with gooey mozzarella or cheddar cheese and Parmesan, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, they make for an easy last-minute appetizer or snack.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize with your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces to suit any palate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these cheesy mashed potato balls will impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Shallow dish
• Spoon or scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks food quickly while keeping it crispy on the outside and tender inside.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients evenly so that every bite is flavorful.
• Shallow dish: Ideal for coating the potato balls in breadcrumbs without making a mess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these delightful Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Mashed Potato Mixture

• 2 cups chilled and firm mashed potatoes
• 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

For Coating

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Cooking spray or a little olive oil

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you don’t already have mashed potatoes, prepare them ahead of time and allow them to cool and firm up in the fridge.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the potato balls with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket; ensure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve

Let the potato balls cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch or marinara. Enjoy your crispy Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls!

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls make a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Their crispy exterior and gooey cheese center are sure to impress your guests or family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavor perfectly.
• Marinara Sauce: This tangy sauce adds a zesty kick to the creamy mashed potatoes.
• Sour Cream: For a cool contrast, serve with a dollop of sour cream mixed with herbs.

As a Side Dish

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad provides a nice balance to the richness of the potato balls.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans are great options that add color and nutrition.
• Roasted Potatoes: Enhance the potato theme with crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs.

In a Snack Platter

• Cheese Board: Pair your potato balls with various cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an elegant touch.
• Veggie Sticks: Include carrot and cucumber sticks for a crunchy and healthy accompaniment.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Use Chilled Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are chilled and firm. This helps them hold their shape during frying.
• Bold Experiment with Cheese: Mix different types of cheese for unique flavors; try adding pepper jack for some heat!
• Bold Keep Them Small: Roll the balls into uniform sizes, about 1 tablespoon each, for even cooking.
• Bold Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This ensures that they cook evenly and get crispy.
• Bold Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the potato balls in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows proper air circulation for perfect crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These delicious cheesy potato balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their comfort food vibe. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf that complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing adds freshness to your meal.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw offers a delightful contrast to the soft texture of potato balls.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a nutritious addition to your plate.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden, these sprouts add an earthy flavor that pairs well with potatoes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser and brings summer vibes to your dining experience.
7. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans nicely balances the savory flavors of cheesy mashed potato balls.
8. Fried Zucchini Chips: Crispy zucchini chips offer another layer of crunch and flavor diversity alongside your snack!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, avoiding common mistakes can ensure the best outcome. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect results.

• Using warm mashed potatoes – Warm mashed potatoes can make it difficult to form balls. Always use chilled and firm mashed potatoes for better structure.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs provide a crispy coating. Don’t skip this step; ensure your potato balls are well-coated for that golden crunch.
• Overcrowding the air fryer – Placing too many balls in the air fryer at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
• Not preheating the air fryer – Preheating ensures that your potato balls cook evenly and become crispy. Always preheat your air fryer before adding your food.
• Ignoring seasoning – Lack of seasoning can make your potato balls bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Place cooled potato balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; this may result in less crispiness.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or cheddar with other cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I make them vegan-friendly?

Replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based cheeses.

Can I make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator or freezer before air frying.

What dipping sauces pair well with these potato balls?

Ranch dressing and marinara sauce are great options to serve alongside these cheesy delights!

How long do they take to cook in the air fryer?

These delicious snacks typically take about 8-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to become golden brown and crispy.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether it’s adding spices or trying different cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm, cheesy snack that’s sure to impress!