Description
Crispy Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls with golden exteriors and molten cheese centers. Perfect appetizer or side dish using leftover mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
3 cups cooled mashed potatoes
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
½ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup all-purpose flour
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Mix mashed potatoes with cheeses and seasonings in large bowl
2. Set up breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture
3. Form potato mixture into 2-inch diameter balls
4. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes
6. Place coated balls in air fryer basket without touching
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through
8. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F
9. Rest for 3-4 minutes before serving
Notes
Use room temperature mashed potatoes for easier shaping
Add flour if mixture is too wet, egg yolk if too dry
Can be made 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before cooking
Freeze cooked balls for up to 3 months, reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato balls, air fryer, appetizer, leftover potatoes