Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
These air fryer cheesy mashed potato balls turn chilled mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and Parmesan into crispy golden bites. They are easy to coat, air fry, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Equipment
- air fryer
- large mixing bowl
- cookie scoop
- two bowls For beaten egg and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- cooking spray or a little olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
- Place the beaten egg in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another. Dip each potato ball into the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potato balls are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, marinara, or sour cream.
Notes
Use cold, firm mashed potatoes for easier shaping. For different flavors, try pepper jack or gouda. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto each ball for an even coating. When making a large batch, keep cooked balls warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while finishing the remaining batches.