Go Back

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Crispy golden potato balls filled with melted cheese, made healthier in the air fryer. Perfect appetizer or snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 20 potato balls
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 95
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Potato Balls
  • 3 cups cold mashed potatoes preferably day-old
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 eggs large, beaten and divided
  • 0.25 cup green onions finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp paprika
Coating
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp dried herbs parsley or Italian seasoning
  • cooking spray

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Small scoop or spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, one beaten egg, green onions, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  2. Form mixture into 1.5-inch balls using hands or small scoop. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Set up breading station with three dishes: flour, remaining beaten egg, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and herbs.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  5. Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place breaded balls in single layer without touching.
  7. Spray tops with cooking spray and air fry 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from air fryer and cool 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.

Notes

Day-old mashed potatoes work best as they hold their shape better. Balls can be frozen before breading and cooked directly from frozen with 2-3 extra minutes cooking time.