Description
These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy on the outside and perfectly cheesy on the inside. Made with chilled mashed potatoes, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and seasoned with garlic and onion powder, these bite-sized snacks are air fried to golden perfection. Ideal as a delicious appetizer or side dish, they’re easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings with less oil than traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato 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
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Balls: Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a smooth ball with your hands. Repeat this process until the entire mixture is used, creating uniform-sized balls.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each potato ball into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and firm coating on the surface of each ball.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while preparing the basket.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated potato balls in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry the Potato Balls: Cook the potato balls in the air fryer at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Shake the basket or turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Serve: Immediately serve your cheesy mashed potato balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces for a perfect snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For best results, use mashed potatoes that are chilled and firm to help the balls hold their shape.
- You can substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or any cheese of your choice according to your preference.
- Panko breadcrumbs will give a crispier exterior compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
- Use cooking spray sparingly to reduce added fat but ensure crispiness.
- Serve with ranch, ketchup, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
