If you love transforming simple leftovers into irresistibly snackable bites, Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are about to become your new kitchen obsession! These golden, crunchy morsels start with humble mashed potatoes and end up as crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside treats no one can resist. With a luscious cheddar filling, bright pops of green onion, and the perfect hint of garlic, they are tailor-made for dipping, sharing, or just devouring straight from the basket. Trust me, this recipe is proof that comfort food can be both easy and downright fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of pantry staples come together to create something this crave-worthy! Each element brings its own texture, flavor, or color, making these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls truly shine.
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: Using chilled potatoes helps the balls hold their shape and gives the center a creamy texture when heated.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and delivers that classic cheesy pull in every bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and a faintly sharp, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle way to infuse savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key—taste your potatoes and adjust to make all the flavors pop.
- 1 large egg: It acts as a “glue,” helping the breadcrumbs stick to each potato ball for even crispiness.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko gives the exterior an extra-crunchy finish that’s irresistible after air frying.
- Cooking spray: A quick spritz makes the outside evenly golden and helps achieve that signature crunch without tons of oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Step 1: Combine the Filling
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding your cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything really well. Your goal is a smooth, well-blended mixture dotted with vibrant green onions and pockets of cheese.
Step 2: Form Potato Balls
Scoop out about two tablespoons of the mixture and quickly roll it between your palms to create a ball. Repeat with the rest of the filling; you’ll end up with roughly a dozen potato balls, each packed with cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Coat for Crunch
Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it until smooth. Pour your panko breadcrumbs into another shallow bowl. Take each potato ball, dip it into the beaten egg to coat evenly, and then roll it in the panko, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick all over. This double dip is the secret to their signature crispy shell!
Step 4: Air Fry for Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Give the tops a light spritz of cooking spray, then air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway so every side gets golden brown and delicious. Don’t step away—the aroma will tell you when they’re almost ready!
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
As soon as they’re crispy and deep golden, take the balls out and let them cool for just a minute or two. These are at their absolute best when piping hot and the cheese is still melty inside.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Garnishes
A small flourish goes a long way! Sprinkle extra chopped green onions or parsley on top for fresh color and brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of smoked paprika gives them a sweet, smoky finish that pairs beautifully with the cheesy core.
Side Dishes
Think of these potato balls as the ultimate appetizer or party starter. Pair them with a crisp green salad, tangy coleslaw, or even a plate of roasted veggies to balance their richness. A trio of dips—like ranch, sriracha mayo, or cool sour cream—makes every bite even more inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, thread the potato balls onto skewers and serve as party pops. They also look fantastic piled high on a platter alongside your favorite dipping sauces, or even nestled into a bento box for an unexpected lunch treat. However you serve them, these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls always draw a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? Store your cooked Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days—which makes them perfect for quick snacks or last-minute appetizers.
Freezing
You can freeze these after forming and breading, or after air frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months, so you always have a cheesy snack at the ready.
Reheating
To restore that just-out-of-the-air-fryer crunch, reheat your potato balls in the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes straight from the fridge, or slightly longer from frozen. Avoid the microwave—it softens the crust too much!
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Just be sure your mashed potatoes are thick, well-seasoned, and completely cold before mixing with the cheese and other ingredients for the best texture.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella gives a milder, stretchier center. You can also add pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend for depth of flavor.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumb or crushed gluten-free crackers, and make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten free.
Can I prep Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls ahead of time?
Yes! Form and bread the balls, then chill for up to a day before air frying. This makes them party-perfect, since you can cook them fresh when guests arrive.
What dips go well with these?
These are delicious with ranch, spicy aioli, honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or even cool sour cream. The options are limitless, so feel free to get creative based on what you love!
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll find yourself looking for excuses to whip up a batch—leftovers or not! They’re so simple, satisfyingly crispy, and endlessly customizable that they practically beg to be shared. Grab some potatoes, warm up your air fryer, and treat yourself to little bites of comfort tonight!
Print
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delicious appetizer or snack made with creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and green onions, all coated in crispy breadcrumbs and air-fried to perfection.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Balls:
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form mixture into balls.
- Coat Balls: Beat egg in a bowl. Coat each ball with egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer. Spray basket, arrange balls, spray tops, and air fry until crispy, turning halfway.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in crumbled bacon or chopped jalapeños.
- Substitute mozzarella for a different cheese twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
