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Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are the best way to use up leftover mashed potatoes! With a crispy golden crust and a gooey, melty cheese center, they make the perfect snack, appetizer, or game-day treat.
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Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Servings: 5

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • ½ cup crumbled bacon
  • ½ cup chopped chives or green onions
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 oz cheddar cheese cut into cubes
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cooking oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture

  • In a medium bowl, mix mashed potatoes, crumbled bacon, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Shape the Potato Balls

  • Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture, flatten it into a small disk, and place a cheddar cheese cube in the center.
  • Wrap the mashed potatoes around the cheese and roll it into a smooth ball.

Coat the Potato Balls

  • Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
  • Roll each potato ball in flour, then dip in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  • For extra crispiness, dip back into the egg wash and breadcrumbs a second time.

Air Fry the Potato Balls

  • Preheat the air fryer to 370°F.
  • Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking oil spray.
  • Cook for 4 minutes, shake the basket, and spray again if needed.
  • Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Let them cool slightly before serving.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or marinara.

Notes

  • For best results, use cold mashed potatoes so they hold their shape.
  • Try different cheese fillings like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.
  • If your mashed potatoes are too soft, chill them for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer.