There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, especially when they take the form of crispy, golden balls. Imagine sinking your teeth into an Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Ball, where every bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a warm, cheesy explosion. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame, and trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart.
This dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties; it’s perfect for cozy family nights or casual gatherings with friends. Picture yourself serving these golden delights at a game night—everyone raving about how they can’t stop eating them. Anticipation builds as you promise an amazing flavor experience in every cheesy bite. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level
- The rich flavor profile combines creamy potatoes with melty cheese in each bite
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they’ll steal the show on any table
- They’re versatile enough to enjoy as appetizers, snacks, or sides at any meal
I remember the first time I made these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls; my friends couldn’t get enough of them! The laughter and joy were contagious as we devoured every last one. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them; they add extra flavor and save time on prep.
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Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese blend; cheddar adds a nice sharpness that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
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Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions will provide a pop of color and subtle onion flavor.
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Panko Breadcrumbs: Use panko for that perfect crunch; regular breadcrumbs just won’t cut it.
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Eggs: Eggs act as a binder here; don’t skip them unless you want your balls falling apart.
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Salt and Pepper: Always season well; these simple ingredients elevate the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix everything until well combined and evenly blended.
Add Binding Ingredients: Crack two eggs into the mixture and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth; this will help everything hold together nicely during frying.
Shape the Balls: With clean hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Make sure they are compact to prevent falling apart during cooking.
Bread the Balls: Roll each ball gently in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy exterior; don’t be shy!
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes before placing the potato balls inside. This ensures an even cook throughout.
Air Fry to Perfection: Place the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Flip halfway through for even cooking—trust me on this one!
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them plain—they’re fantastic either way!
You Must Know
- Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful twist on comfort food
- They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them irresistibly delicious
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or a cozy night in—these cheesy bites will steal the show!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Boil your potatoes until tender before mashing. Form into balls, dip in egg wash, and coat with breadcrumbs. Then air fry until golden brown, ensuring even cooking throughout for the perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. You can also add herbs like chives or bacon bits to create unique variations that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use starchy potatoes like Russets for creamier mashed potatoes
- Avoid overmixing; gentle folding keeps them fluffy
- Don’t skip chilling the balls before air frying to ensure they hold their shape
Creating these Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls reminded me of family gatherings where food brought everyone together. The laughter and joy shared over delicious bites are truly priceless.
FAQ
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes make this recipe super convenient and delicious.
What dipping sauces pair well with these balls?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli enhance their flavors beautifully.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free options or crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating.
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese into crispy golden bites. Perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy family dinners, these delicious balls deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and green onions until fully combined.
- Add the eggs and season with salt and pepper; stir until smooth.
- Scoop small portions of the mixture (about 1-2 inches in diameter) and roll into balls.
- Coat each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (approximately 40g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg