Jump to Recipe Print RecipeCaught in the whirlwind of a busy week, I found myself staring at a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes wondering how to avoid another mundane meal. That’s when the idea struck me: Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! These delightful bites turn your humble leftovers into a crispy, golden snack that’s not only indulgent but also impressively easy to whip up in just 20 minutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—add your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses to create a personalized treat everyone will love. Plus, using an air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of traditional frying. Are you ready to reinvent dinner and excite your taste buds? Let’s dive into making these cheesy delights! Why Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Irresistible? Flavor Explosion: The savory blend of gooey cheese and creamy potatoes creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Fast and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these bites provide a quick fix for your cravings without any elaborate prep work. Versatile Delight: Customize them with your favorite spices or cheese—think Garlic Butter Potatoes or even crumbled bacon for an extra kick! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or as a unique side dish, these cheesy balls are sure to win over both kids and adults alike. Healthier Alternative: Utilizing an air fryer means you can enjoy a crispy exterior without the excess oil, making these a guilt-free snack option! Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Ingredients • Turn your leftovers into magic with these Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls! For the Base Chilled Mashed Potatoes – Use leftovers for the best texture or prepare fresh and cool them down. Egg – Binds everything together; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option. For the Cheesy Goodness Shredded Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese – Adds that gooey, melty experience; feel free to experiment with different melting cheeses. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Boosts flavor and richness; swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist. For the Flavor Boost Garlic Powder – Enhances depth of flavor; fresh garlic is a fantastic alternative. Onion Powder – Adds subtle sweetness; optional for a milder taste. Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to elevate all other flavors; adjust to your preference. For the Crunchy Coating Breadcrumbs – Create a crispy exterior; use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed for a gluten-free version. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Step 1: Prepare Mashed Potatoes Start by using chilled mashed potatoes, ensuring they are firm enough to hold their shape. If using leftovers, allow them to cool completely in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency for your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. Step 2: Mix Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella or cheddar, grated parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a sturdy spatula to mix these ingredients well until everything is evenly blended, creating a cohesive and flavorful base for your cheesy bites. Step 3: Form Balls With clean hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and gently roll it into a ball shape. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking; you should be able to form around 12-14 balls. Place the formed balls on a clean plate, ready for the next step of coating. Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs Take the prepared breadcrumbs and spread them out on a large plate. Roll each potato ball in the breadcrumbs until they are fully coated, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. This coating adds the delightful crunch to your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, setting the stage for the air frying to come. Step 5: Air Fry Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Once heated, arrange the breadcrumb-coated potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a touch of oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. Step 6: Serve After air frying, let the Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls cool slightly for about 2 minutes. This brief cooling period will help firm them up and make them easier to handle. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or BBQ for a truly delightful snacking experience. What to Serve with Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls These delightful bites are perfect for creating a well-rounded meal that tantalizes the taste buds. Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that adds a tangy contrast, perfect for dipping those cheesy bites to elevate their flavor. Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the cheesy mashed potato balls, adding freshness and crunch. Include colorful veggies for a vibrant touch! Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, savory chicken on skewers makes a fantastic protein addition; it complements the creamy texture of the potato balls beautifully. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw is a refreshing side that brings a delightful balance to the richness of the cheesy goodness. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies provide a burst of flavor and color, rounding out your dinner plate for a wholesome meal. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink like this cleanses the palate and enhances the overall dining experience, making every bite feel special. Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, this rich dessert provides a perfect contrast to the savory flavors, creating a satisfying end to your meal. Expert Tips for Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Chill for Success: Make sure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before forming the balls. This helps them maintain their shape during cooking. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Get Creative: Feel free to experiment! Add spices like cayenne for a kick, fresh herbs for brightness, or swap cheeses based on what you have. Check Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary based on the size of your cheesy balls. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden-brown color. Use Quality Breadcrumbs: Choose fresh or homemade breadcrumbs for the best crunch on your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked potato balls on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, air fry frozen balls at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until hot and crispy. Add a couple of minutes for thawed balls. Avoid Moisture: When storing in the fridge or freezer, use airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect the crispiness of your cheesy treats. Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Variations Feel free to explore delightful twists on these Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls with simple swaps and creative flavor enhancements. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm, inviting heat that tantalizes the taste buds. These spicy bites will awaken your senses and turn up the thrill at your dinner table! Bacon Lovers: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon for a savory explosion that’s hard to resist. The combinations of cheesy goodness with crispy bacon create a mouthwatering treat everyone will adore. Sweet Potato Alternative: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a delightful twist on flavor and added sweetness. Sweet potato balls bring a unique taste that offers a wholesome alternative packed with nutrients. Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of freshness. This simple addition transforms each bite into a garden-fresh delight, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a gourmet touch. The choice of cheese can completely change the personality of your cheesy balls—a fun way to keep things exciting! Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to make your crispy coating suitable for everyone. This ensures that your indulgent treats can be enjoyed without worry. Savory Spin: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mix for a veggie boost and unexpected burst of flavor. These earthy elements create a heartier snack that doesn’t skimp on taste. To pair these delicious bites with something creamy, consider serving them with a side of marinara or ranch—just like when enjoying Garlic Butter Potatoes for that extra dip! Whether you’re making them with a twist for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, these variations ensure every bite remains pleasantly memorable. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the mixture of chilled mashed potatoes, cheeses, egg, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply form the balls and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and flavor. To keep the breadcrumbs crispy, it’s best to coat them just before air frying. When you’re ready to enjoy, air fry them right from the fridge for about 8-10 minutes; they’ll be just as delicious as if made fresh! This way, you’ll always have a quick, indulgent snack or side ready to go. Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe potatoes for making mashed potato balls? Absolutely! When preparing for your Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls, select potatoes that are firm, with smooth skin and no dark spots. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, which makes for fluffy mashed potatoes. What is the best way to store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls? You can store any leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cool before sealing; this will help preserve their delightful texture. Can I freeze uncooked mashed potato balls? Yes! To freeze, lay your uncooked Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just air fry them straight from the freezer! What if my mashed potato mixture is too wet to form balls? If your mixture is too wet, no worries! To fix this, you can add more breadcrumbs or a bit of additional mashed potato until you reach a pliable consistency. Chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes can also help firm it up and make rolling easier. Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls gluten-free? Very! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and check that all your other ingredients, like cheese and seasonings, are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the cheesy goodness without worrying about gluten. How do I reheat frozen Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls? To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If they’re frozen, cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again. If they’ve been thawed, just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy those tasty bites just like fresh! Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls: Crispy, gooey goodness awaits Enjoy Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, perfect for a quick and indulgent snack. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 ballsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 cups Chilled Mashed Potatoes Use leftovers or prepare fresh and cool down.1 large Egg Substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.For the Cheesy Goodness1 cup Shredded Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese Feel free to experiment with different melting cheeses.1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.For the Flavor Boost1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic is a fantastic alternative.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional for a milder taste.to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to your preference.For the Crunchy Coating1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Equipment Air Fryer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by using chilled mashed potatoes, ensuring they are firm enough to hold their shape. If using leftovers, allow them to cool completely in the fridge for at least an hour.In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, grated parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.Roll each potato ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breadcrumb-coated balls in a single layer, spray lightly with cooking spray, and air fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through.Allow the balls to cool slightly for about 2 minutes, then serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure mashed potatoes are cooled completely before forming balls and do not overcrowd the air fryer for the best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!