Cheesy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
Crispy outside, melty inside, these cheesy mashed potato balls air fry to golden perfection in minutes. They’re the ultimate bite-size comfort snack or party appetizer.
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Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cup cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella
- 0.33 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup panko breadcrumbs for the mix
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.75 tsp fine sea salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil divided
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika for coating
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
- Combine 0.75 cup panko and smoked paprika in a shallow bowl; drizzle with 0.5 tbsp olive oil and toss to moisten.
- Mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar, mozzarella, green onions, Parmesan, 0.25 cup panko, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into tight balls.
- Chill the balls in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Roll each ball in the seasoned panko, pressing gently so the crumbs stick.
- Brush the air fryer basket with a little olive oil.
- Arrange the potato balls in a single layer; brush or dab the tops with the remaining oil.
- Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crisp and deep golden.
- Rest 2 minutes, then serve hot with marinara or ranch.
Notes
Variation: Tuck a small mozzarella cube into the center for an extra cheesy pull, or add a pinch of cayenne for heat. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer at 360°F for 3–4 minutes.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cheesy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.