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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls – Easy Dinner Potato Recipe Thumbnail

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the ultimate comfort-food bite—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, with melty cheese in every mouthful. Made from simple ingredients and perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. These golden potato balls cook quickly in the air fryer, giving you that satisfying crunch without deep frying. Serve them as a party appetizer, a cozy side dish, or a quick snack when cravings hit. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy, cheesy, and impossible to resist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Potato Base
  • 2 cups cold mashed potatoes firm works best
  • 1 cup shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan
  • Seasoning Boost
  • 1 large egg lightly whisked
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Crispy Coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko for extra crunch or classic works too
  • Olive oil spray or a light drizzle of oil

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.

            Final Notes

            Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crunchy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable. Serve them as snacks, starters, or sides, and don’t be afraid to tweak the seasonings to match your vibe. Once you try them, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your potato rotation.