Of course! Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls are the perfect snack or appetizer—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with a gooey, melted cheese center. They’re a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
Here is a detailed recipe and guide to help you make them perfectly.
Crispy Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls
These are essentially a lighter, easier-to-make version of fried potato croquettes. The air fryer gives them a beautiful golden crust without the mess and oil of deep-frying.
Ingredients:
· 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold is best)
· 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for the mixture)
· 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
· 1 large egg
· 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Filling: 1/2 cup block of mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into small 1/2-inch cubes
· For Coating:
· 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
· 1 large egg, beaten
· 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (regular work too, but Panko is crispier)
· Cooking oil spray or olive oil spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potato Mixture:
· In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, chives, one egg, garlic powder, and paprika.
· Mix until everything is well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.
· Pro-Tip: If your mixture feels too soft or sticky, you can add a tablespoon or two of flour or breadcrumbs to help it bind. Chill it for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Assemble the Cheese Balls:
· Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
· Take about a tablespoon of the potato mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place one cube of cheese in the center.
· Carefully enclose the cheese cube with the potato mixture, rolling it gently between your palms to form a smooth, round ball. Ensure the cheese is completely sealed inside to prevent leaking.
· Roll the ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in the Panko breadcrumbs.
· Place the coated ball on a plate and repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Air Frying:
· Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
· Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the potato cheese balls in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching. You will likely need to cook in batches.
· Spray the tops of the balls generously with oil—this is key for browning and crispiness.
- Cook:
· Air fry for 10-14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
· Important: Let them cool for a few minutes before biting into them, as the cheese center will be extremely hot and molten!
Pro-Tips for Success (Avoiding Common Issues)
· Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold potatoes are much firmer and less sticky, making them easier to shape.
· Seal the Cheese Completely: This is the most critical step. If the cheese is exposed, it will melt and ooze out during cooking. Make sure the potato layer is even around the cheese cube.
· Don’t Skip the Breading Station: The flour-egg-breadcrumb layers are essential for creating a protective, crispy crust.
· Preheating is Key: A preheated air fryer gives an immediate “sear,” helping the coating get crispy quickly.
· Spray with Oil: Without oil, the breadcrumbs won’t brown properly. A light spray makes all the difference.
· Let Them Rest: Allowing the balls to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking lets the cheese center settle slightly, so it’s gooey instead of dangerously runny.
Delicious Variations
· Bacon & Cheddar: Add 1/4 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture and use a cube of cheddar cheese.
· Jalapeño Popper: Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) and use a cube of pepper jack cheese.
· Herb & Garlic: Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and an extra minced garlic clove to the potato mixture.
· Leftover Stuffing: Mix in a few tablespoons of leftover stuffing for a Thanksgiving-inspired flavor.
Serving Suggestions
· Dipping Sauces: These are a must! Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, sour cream and chives, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli.
· As an Appetizer: Perfect for game day or parties.
· As a Side Dish: A fun alternative to standard potato sides with a meal like roasted chicken or steak.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and cheesy homemade snack