Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls: 1 Divine Air Fryer Snack

Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls: 1 Divine Air Fryer Snack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486907H27M13S
Total time: PT-486907H27M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm); 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); Cooking spray or a little olive oil

by Jannet Lisa

14 de July de 2025

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Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer has become my go-to appetizer for gatherings, big or small. I remember the first time I whipped these up for a casual get-together; the aroma of garlic and onion powder filling my kitchen was just intoxicating. My friends devoured them, asking for the recipe before I even had a chance to sit down! They’re so much better than deep-fried versions, offering that incredible crunch without the extra oil. This simple recipe for Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Air Fryer style is a true game-changer, especially when you need a quick and delicious snack using up those leftovers. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

I know you’re going to adore these potato balls for so many reasons. They’re incredibly versatile and satisfy that craving for something crispy and savory without the fuss. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, from game day to a quick after-school snack.

They offer an irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy interior and a perfectly golden, crispy exterior.
Prep time is minimal, especially if you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, making them a super quick snack.
Air frying makes them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions, cutting down on oil.
This recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Even picky eaters will love these delightful Homemade Air Fryer Potato Croquettes.
They are a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, reducing food waste creatively.
You’ll be amazed at how easily these Homemade Air Fryer Potato Croquettes come together.

Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful potato bites. I’ve found that using good quality, chilled mashed potatoes makes all the difference for perfect Air Fried Cheesy Potato Bites.

2 cups mashed potatoes – make sure they are chilled and firm; leftover mashed potatoes from dinner work perfectly.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – for that irresistible gooey center.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
1 egg, beaten – acts as a binder, holding everything together.
½ tsp garlic powder – a pantry staple that enhances the savory notes.
½ tsp onion powder – complements the garlic for a classic flavor profile.
Salt, to taste – adjust according to your preference and the saltiness of your mashed potatoes.
Pepper, to taste – fresh ground black pepper adds a lovely subtle kick.
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) – essential for that golden, crispy exterior.
Cooking spray or a little olive oil – for air frying to achieve that perfect crispness without excess fat.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

Now for the fun part: shaping and air frying these incredibly delicious potato bites! It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll love watching them transform into golden, crispy perfection. This Crispy Mashed Potato Balls Air Fryer Recipe is truly simple to follow.

Step 1: First, ensure your mashed potatoes are thoroughly chilled. This is crucial for easy handling and forming the balls. If they’re too soft, pop them back in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chilled mashed potatoes with the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this step to ensure everything is evenly mixed without overworking the potatoes.
Step 3: Once combined, scoop out small portions of the mixture. I aim for about 1 to 1.5-inch balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Gently roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth, compact ball. This Crispy Mashed Potato Balls Air Fryer Recipe relies on firm balls for the best texture.
Step 4: Place your breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each potato ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and complete coating. This outer layer is what gives them that satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it’s preheating, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Arrange the breaded potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. You’ll likely need to cook them in batches. Give them a light spray of cooking oil on top for extra crispiness.
Step 7: Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer models can vary. You’ll notice them puffing slightly and achieving that irresistible golden hue. These Crispy Mashed Potato Balls Air Fryer Recipe instructions will guide you to perfect results every time.
Step 8: Carefully remove the hot Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer from the basket and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

I’ve made these delicious bites countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to ensure they turn out perfectly every single time. These simple pro tips will elevate your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Always start with cold, firm mashed potatoes. This makes them much easier to handle and form into neat balls, preventing them from falling apart.
Don’t be shy with the breadcrumbs! A generous, even coating is key to achieving that incredibly crispy exterior.
Cook in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding the basket will steam the potato balls instead of crisping them, leading to a soggy result.
A quick spray of cooking oil before air frying helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and extra crunch.
Serve them immediately! While they’re still warm and the cheese is delightfully gooey, they are at their absolute best.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer?

The real secret lies in using chilled, firm mashed potatoes and a good quality, even breadcrumb coating. This combination ensures they hold their shape and get incredibly crispy in the air fryer, making it the Best air fryer mashed potato ball recipe you’ll find for that perfect texture.

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

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare and form the Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator before air frying. This makes them perfect for party prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer?

Avoid using warm mashed potatoes, as they’ll be too sticky and hard to shape. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for optimal crispiness. Finally, ensure a thorough, even breadcrumb coating to prevent them from drying out.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

Once your golden, crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer are fresh out of the air fryer, the possibilities for serving are endless! I love how versatile these little bites are, making them perfect for almost any occasion. They’re fantastic on their own, but a great dipping sauce truly elevates the experience.

For a casual snack or party appetizer, I often serve them with a side of warm marinara sauce or a zesty sour cream and chive dip. They also pair wonderfully with a cool ranch dressing or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a little kick. These make excellent Air fryer potato appetizers for game day or a get-together with friends. For a more complete meal, consider serving them alongside grilled chicken or a crisp green salad. They add a delightful texture and cheesy goodness to any plate!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional content of these delicious bites, so I’ve put together the estimated facts per serving. This recipe yields approximately 12-15 balls, and these values are based on a serving size of 3 balls.

Calories: 180-220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250-300 mg
Fat: 7-10 g
Saturated Fat: 3-4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2-3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25-30 g
Fiber: 2-3 g
Protein: 6-8 g
Cholesterol: 30-50 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and preparation methods for your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

One of the best things about these delicious potato balls is how well they store, making them fantastic for meal prep or enjoying later. Whether you have just a few left or made a big batch for future snacking, I’ve got you covered. This is one of my favorite Leftover mashed potato air fryer ideas for keeping the goodness going.

First, allow any leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Place the cooled balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

To reheat, I highly recommend using your air fryer again to bring back that amazing crispiness. For refrigerated balls, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until golden and hot in the center. This method ensures they taste just as good as fresh, proving these are truly one of the best Leftover mashed potato air fryer ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! You can definitely substitute sweet potatoes for regular mashed potatoes to make a delicious variation. The flavor will be sweeter, so you might want to adjust the seasonings slightly. The process for How to make cheesy mashed potato balls in an air fryer remains the same, ensuring a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Do I need to add flour or another binder to the mixture?

For this recipe, the egg acts as a sufficient binder, especially when combined with chilled, firm mashed potatoes. I haven’t found the need for additional flour. If your mixture feels too soft, chilling it longer or adding a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to the mix can help solidify it before you proceed.

What are some good dipping sauces for these potato balls?

These crispy bites are fantastic with a variety of dipping sauces! My favorites include a classic marinara, a zesty ranch dressing, sriracha mayo for a bit of heat, or even a simple sour cream and chive dip. Experiment to find your perfect pairing, enhancing your experience of How to make cheesy mashed potato balls in an air fryer an ultimate snack.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake these if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. While they might not be quite as uniformly crispy as the air-fried version, they will still be delicious.

Variations of Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer You Can Try

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these potato balls are incredibly versatile! Once you master the basic Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer recipe, you can easily tweak it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. It’s fun to explore new flavor profiles!

heesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer - detail 2

Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the mashed potato mixture. You can also mix in some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Herb Garden Fresh: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or dill into the potato mixture. This adds a wonderful aromatic freshness that complements the cheese beautifully, making them delightful Easy Air Fryer Cheesy Potato Fritters.
Bacon & Cheddar: Everything’s better with bacon, right? Mix in some crumbled cooked bacon bits and use sharp cheddar cheese for a savory, hearty twist. These rich Easy Air Fryer Cheesy Potato Fritters are always a crowd-pleaser.
Vegan Friendly: To make these vegan, use plant-based mashed potatoes (made with non-dairy milk and butter), vegan shredded cheese, and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as a binder.