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.
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.