Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Potato masher
• Spoon or scoop
• Three coating bowls (flour, egg, breadcrumbs)
• Tray or plate for chilling

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture

• 3 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)

For Air Frying

• Cooking spray or light oil spray

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture

1. Boil potatoes until soft, then mash them in a large bowl while still warm.
2. Add butter, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chopped parsley.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding cheese.

Step 2: Add Cheese

1. Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
2. Mix well so the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture.
3. The cheese will melt during cooking, creating a gooey center.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

1. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.
2. Make sure they are tightly packed so they hold their shape during cooking.
3. Place them on a tray.

Step 4: Chill (Important Step)

1. Refrigerate the potato balls for at least 30 minutes.
2. This helps them firm up and prevents breaking during coating and cooking.

Step 5: Set Up Breading Station

1. Prepare three bowls:
2. Flour
3. Beaten eggs
4. Breadcrumbs
5. This classic coating method creates a crispy golden crust.

Step 6: Coat the Potato Balls

1. Roll each chilled potato ball in flour first.
2. Dip into the egg mixture.
3. Finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure full coverage.
4. Repeat for all balls.

Step 7: Preheat Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. This ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.

Step 8: Air Fry the Potato Cheese Balls

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
2. Place the coated balls in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes , shaking halfway through.
4. Cook until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Serve Hot

1. Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 2–3 minutes.
2. Serve warm for the best cheesy, gooey texture.
3. Pair with ketchup, garlic mayo, ranch, or spicy dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 110 · Protein: 4g · Fat: 5g · Carbohydrates: 13g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 1g · Sodium: 180mg