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 any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting treat, these golden-brown delights offer the perfect balance of crispy exterior and gooey cheese center. Easy to prepare, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: Air frying gives these cheesy mashed potato balls a delightful crunch without the extra oil.
• Cheesy Goodness: With mozzarella or cheddar and Parmesan, each bite is packed with irresistible cheesy flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or a fun finger food at parties!
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add your favorite herbs and spices.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks the potato balls evenly while achieving that perfect crispiness without deep frying.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Shallow dish: Perfect for rolling the potato balls in breadcrumbs, ensuring even coating.
• Spoon or scoop: Helps in portioning out the potato mixture for uniform-sized balls.

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Ingredients

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are made with simple ingredients that come together for a delicious result.

For the Base 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

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

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

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Chilled mashed potatoes
2. Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
3. Grated Parmesan cheese
4. Beaten egg
5. Garlic powder
6. Onion powder
7. Salt and pepper

Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Potato Balls

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Step 4: Coat the Potato Balls

Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Potato Balls

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the potato balls with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve

Let the potato balls cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls!

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these delicious bites pair well with a variety of sauces and sides.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and tangy, ranch dressing complements the cheesy flavor of the potato balls perfectly.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that adds a rich tomato flavor, making it an ideal match for these crispy treats.
• Garlic Aioli: This garlicky dipping sauce enhances the savory notes of the potato balls and adds a gourmet touch.

As Part of a Platter

• Vegetable Platter: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers to add crunch and color to your spread.
• Cheese Board: Pair with assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits for an elegant appetizer presentation.
• Charcuterie Board: Complement the potato balls with cured meats (like turkey), olives, and nuts for a hearty snack option.

In a Meal

• Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a satisfying meal that balances textures.
• Burger Companion: These cheesy potato balls can stand in for fries next to your favorite burger or sandwich.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

To ensure your Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Chilled Mashed Potatoes: Starting with chilled mashed potatoes helps them hold their shape better when forming the balls.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place the potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer. This promotes even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works wonderfully!
• Add Seasonings: Enhance your mixture with additional herbs or spices like paprika or chives for extra flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve these potato balls right after cooking while they’re still hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition alongside your cheesy snacks.
2. Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a light contrast to the richness of the potato balls.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness from sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors beautifully while adding crunch.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad brings protein and fiber to balance out your plate.
6. Grilled Asparagus: This elegant vegetable side adds sophistication while being easy to prepare on the grill or stovetop.
7. Roasted Bell Peppers: Colorful roasted peppers can provide a sweet contrast and brightening touch on your table.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser and brings summer vibes to any meal moment!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls can be fun, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes for the best results.

• Using Warm Mashed Potatoes: This can make it hard to form the balls. Always use chilled and firm mashed potatoes for easier handling.
• Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Placing too many potato balls in the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Always arrange them in a single layer for consistent crispiness.
• Skipping Egg Binding: Forgetting the egg can result in crumbly balls that fall apart during cooking. Make sure to include a beaten egg for binding.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Bland potato balls can be unappetizing. Season your mixture well with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs for extra flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking them too long can make them dry, while not enough time will leave them soggy. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds at a time until warm. Note they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and cook them for around 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls?

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy snacks made from chilled mashed potatoes mixed with cheese, formed into balls, and air-fried for a golden finish.

Can I customize the cheese used?

Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as gouda or pepper jack, for different flavors.

How do I make them spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mashed potato mixture before forming into balls for a spicy kick.

Are Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep and quick snacks later.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe at home; it’s sure to become a favorite!