Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, but sometimes you crave a little something extra. Enter: air fryer mashed potato balls! These delightful little spheres combine the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with a wonderfully crispy exterior, all achieved with the speed and convenience of an air fryer. Forget greasy deep-frying; this recipe delivers guilt-free deliciousness.
What Makes Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls So Good?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the amazing results. The air fryer creates a perfectly crisp, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside fluffy and tender. It's a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, using significantly less oil. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes (leftovers are perfect!)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika for extra flavor
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands, form the potato mixture into 1-inch to 1.5-inch balls. Make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding will prevent them from crisping evenly.
- Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the potato balls.
- Serve: Remove the potato balls from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are delicious on their own, as a side dish, or with your favorite dipping sauce (think sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy mayo).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people have about making air fryer mashed potato balls:
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure they're not too dry; you might need to add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to achieve the right consistency.
What kind of cheese is best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment! Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work wonderfully.
How can I make them extra crispy?
Using panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crispy exterior. You can also lightly spray the potato balls with cooking spray before air frying for an extra layer of crispiness.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato balls before air frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. When ready to cook, simply air fry them from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with air fryer mashed potato balls?
The possibilities are endless! Sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, and even a simple ketchup are all great options.
Tips for Air Fryer Success:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will ensure even cooking and crispy results.
- Flip the potato balls halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Adjust cooking time depending on your air fryer and the size of your potato balls. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking.
These crispy air fryer mashed potato balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They're easy to make, incredibly delicious, and a fun twist on a classic comfort food. Give them a try and experience the magic of air fryer cooking!
