Name: Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (400 g) cold mashed potatoes; ¾ cup (60 g) cooked, crumbled bacon (about 7-8 slices); ¾ cup (65 g) shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup (70 g) all purpose flour; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt; ¼ cup (35 g) plain breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon paprika; Spray oil (for greasing and spraying the potato balls)

Introduction

Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are an easy, delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy snack. These bite-sized treats are golden and crunchy on the outside with a soft, flavorful center, featuring bacon and cheddar cheese without any deep frying. Perfect for parties or a fun side dish!

A close-up of several round fried croquettes with a golden brown crunchy outside, placed together. One croquette is broken in half showing the soft inside filled with white mashed potatoes and small pieces of pink ham. Small green chives are sprinkled on top of the croquettes. They rest on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (400 g) cold mashed potatoes

¾ cup (60 g) cooked, crumbled bacon (about 7-8 slices)

¾ cup (65 g) shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup (70 g) all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ cup (35 g) plain breadcrumbs

½ teaspoon paprika

Spray oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Use a fork to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs and paprika.

Step 3: Using a 1.5-inch scoop or your hands, portion the potato mixture and roll into balls. You should get about 16 balls. Roll each ball in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spritz the tops with spray oil.

Step 5: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 14-16 minutes, or until the potato balls are puffed up and golden brown on the outside.

Tips & Variations

If your mashed potatoes are too thin, add a little more flour to help the mixture hold together.

If mashed potatoes are dry, mix in a splash of milk or cream to improve texture.

To avoid sticky hands while rolling, wet your hands or wear disposable cooking gloves.

Reduce added seasoning if your mashed potatoes are already heavily seasoned to balance the flavors.

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb coating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, but they need to be fully cooled and firm for best results. Fresh, warm mashed potatoes tend to be too soft and can make shaping difficult.

Do I need an air fryer to make these mashed potato balls?

The air fryer makes them extra crispy without deep frying, but you can also bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.