Easy to make and quick to cook, these Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are cheesy, crispy, and so good! Perfect for using up leftover mash, they make a delightful appetizer or side dish for various occasions. With their golden exterior and creamy interior, these balls are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for a last-minute snack or gathering.
- Deliciously Cheesy: The addition of cheddar cheese adds rich flavor that pairs well with the fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun party snack – they fit any occasion!
- Healthier Alternative: Cooking in an air fryer reduces oil usage compared to traditional frying, making these balls a healthier option.
- Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Everyone loves crispy bites; these potato balls are sure to be a hit at your next event!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready ensures a more enjoyable cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking tin
- Three shallow bowls (for flour, egg, and breadcrumbs)
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This is key for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining the ingredients evenly.
- Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when preparing your potato balls.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mashed potato ((1kg))
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ((120g))
– 5 green onions
– 2 eggs
– ½ cup flour ((70g))
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs ((50g))
How to Make Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potato, cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir until well mixed.
Step 2: Form the Balls
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking tin.
Step 3: Prepare Breading Stations
- In three separate shallow bowls, beat the eggs, add the flour, and fill the third with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Coat Each Ball
- Dip each mashed potato ball first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the balls.
Step 6: Arrange in Air Fryer
- Lightly oil the air fryer basket. Place the coated potato balls in an even layer without touching each other. You may need to cook them in batches. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
Step 7: Cook Until Crispy
- Cook at 375°F for about 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Gently turn them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls!
How to Serve Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
Air fryer mashed potato balls are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
As a Snack
- Serve warm with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. The coolness of the ranch pairs beautifully with the crispy potato balls.
- Try them with homemade garlic aioli for a gourmet twist. The rich garlic flavor complements the cheesy interior.
With Dipping Sauces
- Pair with spicy ketchup for a kick. This adds an exciting flavor dimension to each bite.
- Offer sweet chili sauce on the side for a sweet and savory experience. The sweetness balances the salty cheese in the balls.
As Part of a Platter
- Include air fryer mashed potato balls in a party platter alongside vegetables and cheeses. This makes for a great appetizer spread.
- Add them to a charcuterie board as an intriguing alternative to traditional meats and cheeses.
Topped with Sour Cream
- Serve them topped with sour cream and chives. This classic combination enhances the creamy texture of the potatoes while adding freshness.
On Salad
- Place them on top of a mixed greens salad for added texture. The crispy coating contrasts nicely with fresh greens.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
To achieve the best results with your air fryer mashed potato balls, follow these handy tips for perfecting your recipe every time.
- Use cold mashed potatoes: Cold mash helps hold the shape better when forming balls, ensuring they don’t fall apart during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Give each ball space in the air fryer basket to cook evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.
- Spray oil generously: A light mist of oil on top of each ball will promote browning and crispiness, enhancing their texture.
- Experiment with seasonings: Add garlic powder or paprika to the mixture before forming balls for an extra burst of flavor.
- Flip halfway through: Gently turning the balls midway through cooking ensures even crisping on all sides, resulting in perfectly golden treats.
- Cool before serving: Allowing them to cool slightly after cooking helps firm up their structure, making them easier to handle.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
Air fryer mashed potato balls make an excellent addition to any meal. Pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of potato balls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and flavor, creating a hearty meal alongside your crispy bites.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery goodness of garlic bread pairs well, making it a comforting side dish option.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the mashed potato balls.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, offering a healthy contrast to fried items.
- Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is perfect for dipping; it’s comforting and complements the flavors beautifully.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers additional comfort food vibes, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and sweetness, making every bite delightful when served together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making air fryer mashed potato balls can be simple, but common mistakes can alter your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.
- Skipping the chilling step – If you don’t chill the mashed potato balls before cooking, they may fall apart in the air fryer. Allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before cooking.
- Using wet hands – Wet hands will make it hard to roll the balls. Always dry your hands thoroughly to keep the mixture from sticking to them while shaping.
- Overcrowding the basket – Placing too many balls in the air fryer at once can prevent them from cooking evenly. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Not preheating the air fryer – Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer, as this helps create a nice golden crust on your mashed potato balls.
- Ignoring seasoning – Under-seasoning your mash can result in bland flavors. Make sure you season the mashed potatoes well before shaping them into balls.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover air fryer mashed potato balls in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
- Freeze cooked or uncooked mashed potato balls on a baking tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overcook as they may become soggy.
- Stovetop – For a quick reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding air fryer mashed potato balls that might help enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use leftovers for Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls?
Yes! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they’re seasoned well.
What cheese works best for Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls?
Cheddar cheese is great, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or parmesan for different flavors.
How do I make my Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into your potato mixture for an extra kick!
Can I make these Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer mashed potato balls are a delightful way to use up leftover mash and create a comforting snack or appetizer. Their crispy exterior and cheesy center cater to various tastes and preferences. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or spices according to what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
PrintAir Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and crispy texture, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Quick to prepare and healthier than traditional frying, these delightful bites transform leftover mashed potatoes into a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. With a golden exterior and creamy interior, they’re ideal for parties, gatherings, or as a cozy comfort food option. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 5 green onions, chopped
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions until well mixed.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking tin.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with flour, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly oil the air fryer basket and arrange the balls without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through for even crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
