If you’re a fan of mashed potatoes and love crispy, golden snacks, then you’re in for a treat with Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls. This easy-to-make dish combines the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with a crunchy, golden exterior, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an appetizer for your next gathering, or a delightful side dish, these mashed potato balls are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the world of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful potato perfection!
Why Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls Are the Ultimate Snack
Mashed potatoes are a comfort food loved by many, and when you transform them into air fryer mashed potato balls, they become even more irresistible. The air fryer gives you that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside creamy and soft. These potato balls are a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, adding a crunchy twist to an already beloved dish.
In recent years, the air fryer has revolutionized how we cook by providing a healthier alternative to deep-frying, without compromising on taste and texture. Instead of deep-frying the mashed potato balls, the air fryer uses hot air circulation to achieve the same crispy effect, using far less oil.
This dish is not only a hit for family dinners but also makes a fantastic snack for parties and get-togethers. The combination of cheddar cheese, green onions, and crispy breadcrumbs creates a delightful flavor profile that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Get Ready to Savor the Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
The versatility of air fryer mashed potato balls makes them a go-to recipe for almost any occasion. Whether you have a batch of leftover mashed potatoes or you’re looking for a fun way to make mashed potatoes from scratch, this recipe is both easy and delicious. You’ll be able to impress guests with these flavorful, bite-sized treats that can be served as appetizers or side dishes.
What makes these mashed potato balls so special is the air fryer. The air fryer not only makes the cooking process faster, but it also gives the balls a perfect golden-brown texture that’s crispy on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. No deep frying, no greasy mess—just a healthier, tastier alternative.
As we take you through the simple ingredients and preparation steps, you’ll see how easy it is to make this crispy, cheesy delight at home. It’s time to enjoy a dish that’s both comforting and innovative, with the goodness of mashed potatoes wrapped in a crispy, crunchy coating.
Ingredients and Preparation
Simple Ingredients, Easy Steps: How to Make Perfect Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls:
Ingredients:
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4 cups mashed potatoes (1kg)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (120g)
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5 green onions, finely chopped
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2 eggs, beaten
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½ cup all-purpose flour (70g)
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (50g)
Instructions:
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions until well mixed. This will form the base of your potato balls.
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Form Potato Balls: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Prepare Breading Station: Set up three separate bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will create a breading station for the potato balls.
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Coat the Balls: Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. This triple coating will ensure that the balls are perfectly crispy once cooked.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for getting a crisp finish.
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Cook the Potato Balls: Lightly oil the air fryer basket and place the coated potato balls in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
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Air Fry: Spray the tops of the balls with a little more oil. Cook the balls for 10–15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Cool and Serve: Let the air fryer mashed potato balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm!
Notes:
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If you are making fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe, allow them to cool for 30 minutes before shaping them into balls. This makes handling much easier.
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Spraying both the air fryer basket and the potato balls with a light layer of oil helps to achieve that perfect, crispy exterior.
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If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, simply run it at 275°F (135°C) for 5 minutes before cooking the potato balls.
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Ensure that the potato balls are cooked in a single layer for the best results. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Servings: 12 mashed potato balls
Everything You Need to Know About Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
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Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
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Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. In fact, cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and form into balls than freshly made ones.
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Can I make these without an air fryer?
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Absolutely! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or deep fry them. Just make sure they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
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If your potato balls are falling apart, ensure the mashed potatoes are cold before you shape them. Chilling the formed balls for 30 minutes before cooking also helps them maintain their shape.
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Can I freeze these for later?
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Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato balls. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls: Crispy, Creamy, and Impossible to Resist
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are a perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes and crispy texture, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and the help of your air fryer, you can enjoy this delicious recipe in no time. The best part? You can make them using leftover mashed potatoes, saving time and food waste. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these crispy, cheesy delights are sure to impress family and friends alike. Give them a try today and discover a new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes!