Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls – Crispy, Gooey, and Irresistible
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with a blend of cheeses. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re quick to make and ideal for parties or weeknight treats.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (12–15 balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil
Instructions
- Ensure mashed potatoes are chilled and firm. If freshly made, cool completely.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheeses, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form 1–1.5 inch balls from the mixture. Damp hands if needed.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray or brush the basket with oil.
- Place balls in the basket without overcrowding.
- Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Cheese: Mix varieties like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg