Crunchy Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

I’ll be honest: leftover mashed potatoes rarely survive more than a day in my fridge. But last winter, after making an extra-large pot for a holiday dinner, I ended up with more than even I could eat. Instead of reheating them the boring way, I remembered a trick my grandmother used when she wanted to make leftovers fun rolling them into little patties and pan-frying them.

The first time I tried these potato balls, I stuffed them with melty mozzarella and tossed them into my air fryer. The result? A golden, crunchy shell that gave way to fluffy, cheesy goodness inside. It felt like comfort food disguised as a party appetizer. Now, every time I have mashed potatoes around, I secretly hope I’ll have extras just so I can make these again.

These little bites have become a staple at game nights with friends, where they vanish before the second round starts. They’re also one of my favorite cozy weekend snacks because they’re quick, use simple ingredients, and are way lighter than deep-fried versions.

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover mashed potatoes or wanted a snack that checks both “crispy” and “comforting,” this recipe is your answer.

Short Description

Golden, crispy on the outside and gooey with melted cheese on the inside, these air fryer mashed potato balls are the perfect snack, appetizer, or leftover makeover.

Key Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled and firm)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Tools Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Two small bowls (for breading station)
• Baking sheet or tray

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the potato mixture
Mix mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until fully combined.

Step 2: Shape the balls
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls (about 1.5 inches wide). If sticky, chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Coat the balls
Place beaten egg in one bowl and breadcrumbs in another. Dip each potato ball in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Step 4: Preheat and arrange
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange balls in a single layer with space in between.

Step 5: Cook until golden
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Serve hot with ranch, marinara, or sour cream. The crust should be crunchy with gooey cheese inside.

Troubleshooting tip: If the coating doesn’t stick well, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each ball. If they come out soft, cook an extra 2–3 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside, cheesy inside pure comfort food.

Great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.

Kid-friendly and fun to eat.

Air fryer method keeps them lighter than deep-fried.

Works as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mistake 1: Mixture too soft and sticky.
Solution: Chill the potato mixture for 10–15 minutes before shaping.

Mistake 2: Balls falling apart during coating.
Solution: Make sure mashed potatoes are firm and press breadcrumbs on tightly.

Mistake 3: Overcrowding the air fryer.
Solution: Cook in batches for even crispiness.

Mistake 4: Coating not crunchy.
Solution: Spray lightly with cooking spray before air frying.

Mistake 5: Undercooked centers.
Solution: Cook 2–3 minutes longer until golden and firm.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve on a platter with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, garlic aioli, or sour cream.

Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced lunch.

Perfect as finger food for game nights, potlucks, or family-style dinners.

Try as a side dish with grilled chicken or roasted veggies.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Avoid microwaving they’ll turn soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, shape and coat the balls, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before air frying.

2. Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Air fry from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

3. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives gooey pulls, while cheddar adds sharp flavor. Mix both for best results.

4. Can I bake them instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. How do I keep them from sticking to the basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the balls.

Tips & Tricks

Use chilled mashed potatoes for easier shaping.

A cookie scoop makes all balls even-sized.

Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra freshness.

Double coat in egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Potato Balls: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne to the mix.

Bacon Cheddar Version: Fold ½ cup crispy bacon bits into the mixture with cheddar cheese.

Herb Lovers: Mix in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, chives, or basil.

Stuffed Surprise: Hide a cube of mozzarella inside each ball for extra cheesy centers.

Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese, non-dairy milk instead of egg, and vegan breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls have officially earned their spot as one of my favorite comfort foods. They’re proof that leftovers don’t have to be boring in fact, they can be the star of the show. The air fryer gives them that deep-fried crisp without all the oil, which means I can snack on them guilt-free.

They’re fun to make, fun to eat, and honestly a little addictive. If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy mashed potatoes, I can’t recommend these enough.