Description
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are golden, crispy bites filled with creamy mashed potato and gooey cheese. Lightly seasoned and air-fried instead of deep-fried, they offer a crunchy outside and melty center—perfect for a snack, side, or appetizer.
Ingredients
2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 large egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Olive oil spray or cooking oil mist
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into a ball. Dip each in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. Set on a tray.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray balls with oil. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer with space between. Cook for 8 minutes.
- Flip, spray again, and cook another 4–6 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or aioli.
Notes
Add chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions for flavor.
Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for variation.
Add cayenne or paprika for a spicy kick.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make gluten-free.
Freeze uncooked balls for up to 2 months and air-fry directly from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
