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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Crispy golden potato balls filled with melted cheese, made from leftover mashed potatoes in the air fryer for the perfect comfort food appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 16 potato balls
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Mixture
  • 3 cups cold mashed potatoes preferably day-old
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 eggs large, divided
  • 3 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
Breading
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • cooking spray for air fryer

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Ice cream scoop

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, 1 beaten egg, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  2. Using hands or small ice cream scoop, form mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Prepare three shallow dishes with flour, remaining beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each potato ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place potato balls in single layer without touching.
  7. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from air fryer and serve immediately while cheese is melty. Garnish with additional chives if desired.

Notes

Day-old mashed potatoes work best for firm texture. Don't overcrowd air fryer basket - work in batches for even browning. Can be frozen after breading and cooked directly from frozen.