Golden, crispy bites that crackle when you bite in—yeah, we’re talking about Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. This is comfort food energy turned all the way up. Crunch on the outside, cloud-soft in the center, and packed with melty cheese that stretches like it knows it’s the star of the show.
Got leftover mashed potatoes sitting in the fridge? Congrats—you’re already halfway to one of the most addictive Potato Recipe Ideas out there. This recipe turns humble spuds into snackable gold, making it one of those genius Things To Do With Potatoes that feels a little too easy. IMO, that’s the best kind of cooking.
These cheesy potato balls fit perfectly into your rotation of Easy Simple Ingredient Dinners. No fancy techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients—just simple steps and big flavor. They’re also clutch for parties, game nights, or those “I want something good now” moments. Who doesn’t love handheld comfort food?
Pro tip: the air fryer is doing the heavy lifting here. You get that deep-fried crunch without the oil overload, which is why these belong high on your list of Creative Potato Recipes. Think of them as the fun cousin of Cheesy Baked Potatoes, only crispier and way more snackable.
Serving them as a side? Boom—instant upgrade to your Potato Dinners. Making them the main event? Totally valid. They slide right into your collection of reliable Dinner Potato Recipes and count as elite Stuff To Make With Potatoes when creativity runs low.
And hey, while these aren’t exactly dessert, air fryers can do it all—sweet or savory—so don’t sleep on experimenting with Air Fryer Recipes Sweet later on. FYI, once these hit the table, they disappear fast. Make extra. Trust me.
Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Mix Everything Together
Add the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings to a large bowl. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and evenly combined. You want everything well blended but not overworked.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Bites
Scoop out small portions and roll them between your palms to form balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Continue until the mixture is used up.
Step 3: Add the Crunch
Roll each potato ball through the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks. Set them aside on a plate or tray once coated.
Step 4: Heat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This helps kick-start that crispy exterior.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Lightly grease the air fryer basket. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning once if needed, until they’re crispy and golden all over.
Notes
Serving Ideas
These cheesy potato bites fit into just about any meal plan or occasion.Appetizer Style
Serve hot with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.Salad Upgrade
Toss them into a fresh green salad or use them as crunchy toppers for a Caesar-style bowl.Snack Time
Enjoy them straight out of the air fryer or pair with raw veggies for a quick bite.Party Favorite
Add them to a game-day spread or arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Using warm potatoes: Always start with chilled mashed potatoes to keep the balls firm.
- Crowding the basket: Too many at once means less crisping. Cook in batches if needed.
- Skipping the coating: Breadcrumbs are key for texture—coat every ball evenly.
- No preheat: A hot air fryer makes a big difference in crunch.
- Uneven sizes: Keep them uniform so everything cooks at the same pace.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
Store cooled potato balls in a sealed container for up to 3 days.Freezer
Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes
- Microwave: Quick but softens the crust—use only if needed
- Stovetop: Warm in a nonstick pan, turning occasionally
FAQ
How do I get them extra crispy?Make sure each ball is well coated and lightly sprayed with oil before air frying. Can I switch up the cheese?
Definitely. Pepper jack, gouda, or even a cheese blend works great. What dips pair well with these?
Marinara, ranch, BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli are all solid choices. How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge, or longer if frozen properly.