Irresistible Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls wafting through your kitchen, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Picture golden, crispy spheres that burst with creamy, cheesy goodness at the first bite. It’s a flavor explosion that promises to make any meal feel like a celebration. For more inspiration, check out this easy lunch options recipe.

As you savor these delightful bites, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about cozy family dinners and festive gatherings where comfort food reigned supreme. Whether it’s game day or a casual movie night, these little beauties are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself if you’re feeling indulgent.

I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls; my friends devoured them in minutes, leaving me with only crumbs and a heart full of joy.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience or whip up a fresh batch; either way, make sure they’re creamy.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works wonders for that gooey texture everyone loves.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch on the outside—don’t substitute with regular breadcrumbs!

• Egg: One egg helps bind everything together while adding richness to each bite.

• Chives or Green Onions: Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor; feel free to get creative with your favorite herbs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Begin by reheating your mashed potatoes if using leftovers. For fresh potatoes, boil peeled chunks until tender before mashing with butter and milk.

Mix in the Good Stuff: In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, chopped chives, and an egg. Stir until every bit is well incorporated.

Form the Balls: Scoop out a handful of the mixture and shape it into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry about perfection—rustic shapes have character!

Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs: Roll each potato ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that glorious crunch we all crave.

Air Fry Them!: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the basket and spray lightly with cooking oil. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Savor the Deliciousness!: Let the balls cool slightly before diving in. The cheese will be molten hot inside—trust me; you’ll want to avoid burning your tongue on that cheesy center!

Enjoy these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls as a snack while binge-watching your favorite series or as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making creamy mashed potatoes, then shape them into balls before chilling. This step ensures they hold together while air frying. Preheat the air fryer for optimal crispiness, and cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for mozzarella or add crispy bacon bits inside the balls. Experiment with herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor. Your taste buds will thank you!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispness.

Cooking these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls brought back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last one—it was a delicious battle! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.

FAQ

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

Yes, you can prepare and freeze them un-cooked, then air fry when ready.

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold yield the creamiest texture.

How do I prevent my potato balls from falling apart?

Chill the shaped balls before cooking to help them maintain their form during frying.

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese and a crispy panko coating. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for any occasion—from game day snacks to festive gatherings. With their golden exterior and rich cheesy center, they offer a delightful flavor experience that will have everyone coming back for more.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack/Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions

Instructions

1. If using leftovers, reheat mashed potatoes; if fresh, boil peeled potato chunks until tender, then mash with butter and milk.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chives, and egg. Stir until mixed well.
3. Shape the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange potato balls in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Chill the formed balls before air frying to prevent them from falling apart. Experiment with different cheeses or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added enjoyment.