Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy & Irresistible Snack 🥔🧀🔥

1. Introduction

Are you craving a delicious, cheesy snack that is both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls recipe! Perfect for snack attacks, parties, or a comforting appetizer, these potato balls combine the creamy goodness of cheesy mashed potatoes with a crispy golden exterior. Using air fryer potatoes makes these cheesy mashed potato balls a health-conscious choice, reducing the need for excessive oil while maintaining that irresistible crunch. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to craft flavorful, crispy potato balls using your air fryer, making it an ideal dish for quick weekday treats or impressive weekend snacks.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

To create these delicious potato balls, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked air fryer potatoes (preferably russet or Yukon gold, mashed)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added flavor
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

3. Preparing the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: First, make sure your air fryer potatoes are cooked and mashed smoothly. Use hot, cooked potatoes and combine them in a large bowl with shredded cheese, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. This cheesy mashed mixture will be the base for your delectable potato balls.

4. Shaping the Potato Balls

Step 2: Take about a tablespoon of the cheesy mashed potato mixture and roll it between your palms to form a uniform potato ball, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, lining up your potato balls on a baking sheet or a plate.

5. Breading and Preparing for Air Frying

Step 3: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each potato ball into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, you can press the breadcrumbs gently onto the balls.

6. Air Frying the Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 4: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil. Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray the tops with a bit of cooking spray to enhance the crispiness. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Shake or turn the potato balls halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

7. Serving Suggestions & Tips for the Best Results

Once cooked, serve your cheesy mashed potato balls hot, with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair perfectly with salads or as party appetizers. To keep them warm, place finished potato balls in a warm oven. For richer flavor, sprinkle extra shredded cheese or chopped herbs on top before serving.

8. Storage Tips for Leftover Potato Balls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 4-5 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy, losing that delightful crispiness.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying crispy, cheesy, and savory potato balls made with air fryer potatoes has never been easier. This air fryer cheesy mashed potato balls recipe combines convenience, flavor, and health-conscious preparation in every bite. Perfect for snack lovers, party hosts, or anyone seeking a comforting fried-food style treat without the guilt, these potato balls deliver on every front. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with this delightful dish! Feel free to customize the fillings or toppings to suit your taste. Happy cooking! Print