Posted by If you’ve got leftover mashed potatoes and are looking for a creative, tasty way to use them up, these air fryer mashed potato balls are a perfect choice. Cheesy, crispy, and incredibly easy to prepare, these mashed potato balls are a delightful side dish or appetizer that packs flavor in every bite. Best of all, they are healthier than their deep-fried counterparts, thanks to the use of the air fryer and minimal oil. Whether you’re a fan of vegetarian dishes or simply in need of a quick, satisfying snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Simple ingredients: You likely already have the ingredients needed, like leftover mashed potatoes, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Quick and easy to make: With minimal prep time, you can mix, roll, and air fry these mashed potato balls in under 30 minutes.
Healthier than deep-frying: Air frying requires much less oil than traditional frying, making these a healthier option.
Diet-friendly: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but it can also be adapted for other diets, including gluten-free with a few simple swaps.
Ingredients Breakdown
1. Mashed Potatoes
Using leftover mashed potatoes is not only convenient but also results in less food waste. If you don’t have leftovers on hand, feel free to quickly whip up a fresh batch. A creamy consistency works best for forming the balls, so make sure your mashed potatoes aren’t too runny.
Tip: For an even richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of butter or cream to the mashed potatoes before using them in this recipe.
2. Cheddar Cheese
The addition of shredded cheddar brings a melty, gooey texture to the center of each potato ball. Cheddar’s sharp flavor complements the smoothness of the potatoes, making every bite irresistibly cheesy.
Optional: You can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
3. Green Onions
Chopped green onions provide a burst of fresh flavor that balances the creaminess of the potatoes and the richness of the cheese. They add a slight crunch and a subtle oniony taste that elevates the overall dish.
Substitution Idea: If you don’t have green onions on hand, finely chopped chives or shallots will work just as well, adding their own unique flavor.
4. Eggs and Flour
These two ingredients are essential for ensuring that the panko breadcrumbs adhere to the mashed potato balls. The egg acts as a binding agent, while the flour gives the breadcrumbs a base to stick to.
Pro Tip: If you’re gluten-sensitive, swap out regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour.
5. Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, creating an ultra-crispy coating around each potato ball. This crispy outer layer contrasts beautifully with the soft and creamy interior.
Variation: You can add herbs or seasonings to your breadcrumbs, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried parsley, to give the crust even more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they are cold and have a firm consistency, which makes them easier to roll. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, allow them to cool for a few minutes before beginning.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Potato Balls
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Try to make them as even in size as possible to ensure consistent cooking. Place the formed balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Tip: If your potato mixture is too soft or sticky, refrigerate the balls for about 15 minutes to firm them up before breading.
3. Bread the Potato Balls
Set up a breading station by placing three bowls on your counter: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. One by one, roll each potato ball in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is fully covered in breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
Pro Tip: Press the panko crumbs gently into the potato balls to ensure they stick well.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the potato balls cook evenly and become golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Tip: If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step, but preheating generally improves the texture of air-fried foods.
5. Air Fry the Potato Balls
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded potato balls in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch one another. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the balls in batches.
Spray the tops of the balls with a little more oil. Air fry at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking process. The potato balls are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Recipe Variations
Although this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or use up whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
Add Bacon: Mix some crispy, crumbled bacon into the mashed potatoes for a smoky, savory twist.
Caramelized Onions: Incorporate caramelized onions into the mash for a sweet and rich flavor.
Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for some heat.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda, parmesan, or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy mashed potato balls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair them with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for extra flavor.
Meal Idea: Serve alongside a green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s light yet satisfying.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing: These mashed potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying
Air frying is a fantastic alternative to deep frying because it requires less oil while still achieving a crispy texture. This method reduces the overall fat content, making these mashed potato balls a slightly healthier option. Additionally, air frying is more convenient and cleaner than dealing with hot oil, making it easier to prepare these delicious snacks at home.
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls
These air fryer mashed potato balls are a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy, cheesy goodness using leftover mashed potatoes. They’re ready in just 20 minutes and make the perfect side dish or snack!
- Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 12 balls
Calories: 160 kcal
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (1kg)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (120g)
- 5 green onions, chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup flour (70g)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (50g)
Instructions:
- Mix mashed potatoes, cheese, and green onions in a bowl.
- Shape into balls (about 2 tbsp each) and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer, spray with oil, and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 130mg
