Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a crispy, cheesy, and indulgent snack or side dish. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual family dinners, they combine creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese for a comforting experience. The unique air-frying method gives them a delightful crunch while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party appetizer or a cozy family meal, these potato balls are always a hit.
• Crispy Outside, Cheesy Inside: The air fryer ensures a perfect crunch while keeping the cheese ooey-gooey.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: Kids will love these tasty treats; they’re great for sneaking in some vegetables too!

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily.
• Spoon or scoop: Helps in portioning the potato mixture evenly for consistent-sized balls.
• Shallow dish for breadcrumbs: Ensures even coating of the potato balls with breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are made using simple ingredients that come together to create an irresistible snack.

For the Potato Mixture

• 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

For Coating

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

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

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine chilled mashed potatoes with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
2. Add grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture.
2. Roll it into a ball shape using your hands.
3. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

1. Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
2. Gently roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray each potato ball with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
3. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the potato balls to cool for a few minutes before serving them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Enjoy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to elevate your snacking experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy these crispy treats.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavor perfectly.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy twist and is great for those who love Italian flavors.
• Sour Cream: For a creamy and refreshing dip that balances the richness of the potato balls.

As a Snack Platter

• Cheese Platter: Pair with different cheeses for a fun cheese-centric snack.
• Vegetable Sticks: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast.
• Olives and Pickles: A selection of briny snacks will enhance the overall flavor profile.

As Part of a Meal

• With Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• As a Side with Burgers: These mashed potato balls make an excellent side dish for juicy burgers.
• With Grilled Chicken: Pair them with grilled chicken for a heartier option.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Making perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose Firm Mashed Potatoes: Use chilled leftovers or let freshly made mashed potatoes cool in the fridge to help them hold their shape.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They provide extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, enhancing texture.
• Spray Evenly with Oil: Lightly coat the potato balls before air frying; this helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

When serving Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, consider adding complementary side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing makes for a refreshing side.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that pairs well with fried foods.
3. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused bread makes an indulgent addition to any meal featuring cheesy potato balls.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection offer color and nutrition alongside your cheesy snacks.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet contrast that complements the savory cheesy flavor of the potato balls.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is easy to prepare as an accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using warm mashed potatoes: Warm mashed potatoes can cause the balls to fall apart. Always ensure your mashed potatoes are chilled and firm before mixing.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your mixture can lead to bland potato balls. Don’t forget salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many potato balls in the air fryer at once can prevent even cooking. Work in batches to ensure they cook properly.
• Neglecting to coat with breadcrumbs: Not properly coating the balls with breadcrumbs may result in a less crispy exterior. Roll them well and make sure they’re evenly coated.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your air fryer for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Freeze the uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the balls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

You can experiment with various cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for different flavors. Just ensure they melt well.

How do I know when the potato balls are done cooking?

The potato balls should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Check them at around 8 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer.

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

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time by making and freezing them before cooking. Just follow the freezing instructions provided above.

What dipping sauces go well with these cheesy potato snacks?

These tasty snacks pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even sour cream for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful treat that combines creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese, offering both comfort and crunch. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making them suitable as an appetizer or snack for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy these irresistible bites!

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful fusion of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese, wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. This crowd-pleasing snack is perfect for any occasion, from game days to family dinners. The air fryer ensures that each bite is crunchy on the outside while remaining soft and gooey inside. With their customizable flavors and kid-friendly appeal, these cheesy potato balls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whip them up easily with just a few ingredients, and enjoy the comfort of homemade snacks without the guilt of deep frying.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups chilled mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chilled mashed potatoes with mozzarella or cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into balls.
4. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray potato balls with cooking spray.
6. Arrange in air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snack/Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Use chilled mashed potatoes for better handling. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors. Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for added enjoyment.