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Air fryer mashed potato balls turn leftover mashed potatoes into irresistible golden bites that are crispy on the outside and gooey with cheese on the inside. They feature turkey bacon and fresh chives for added flavor, making them a perfect appetizer or snack that everyone will love. Whether you are hosting friends or looking for a comforting treat, these balls come together quickly and are cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
I first made these on a cozy evening when I had extra mashed potatoes, and now they are a regular request at family gatherings because everyone loves the crunchy-cheesy combo.
Ingredients
- Leftover mashed potatoes: the base of the recipe providing creaminess and comfort. Use smooth and well-seasoned potatoes for best texture
- Crumbled turkey bacon: adds smoky savory flavor without overpowering the dish. Opt for lean slices for a lighter bite
- Cheddar cheese cubes: creates a melty gooey surprise inside each ball. Sharp cheddar works wonderfully for a bold taste
- Breadcrumbs: give the balls their satisfying crunch, fresh or panko breadcrumbs both work well
- Large eggs: bind everything together and help the coating adhere
- Grated Parmesan: mixed with breadcrumbs to add a salty and nutty crust
- Cooking spray: helps achieve that perfect golden crisp without extra oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Mix:
- In a bowl, thoroughly combine leftover mashed potatoes with the crumbled turkey bacon, chopped fresh chives, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if you like. This flavor base makes each bite deliciously seasoned.
- Form and Fill:
- Scoop out a generous portion of the potato mixture into your hand and gently flatten it. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then carefully roll everything into a ball to encase the cheese completely. This step is key to keeping the cheese inside while cooking.
- Prepare the Breading Stations:
- Set up three shallow dishes. Fill one with flour for initial coating. In the second, beat the eggs with a splash of milk to create an egg wash. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese to add extra flavor and a crisp finish.
- Coat the Balls:
- Roll each potato ball first in the flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. This triple layer creates a wonderfully crunchy exterior once air fried.
- Air Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Place the coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch for even cooking. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to encourage browning. Cook at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to crisp all sides evenly.
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My favorite ingredient here has to be the sharp cheddar cheese cubes. They turn every bite into a small melted treasure chest. I remember serving these at a game night once and watching how fast they disappeared because no one could resist the cheesy surprise inside.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked mashed potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy exterior. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked coated balls on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a couple extra air frying minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap turkey bacon with regular bacon or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile. Any type of cheese that melts well like mozzarella or pepper jack works as the filling. If you don’t have Parmesan, plain breadcrumbs can be used, just season them with a bit of salt and garlic powder. For a gluten-free option, try almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.
Serving Suggestions
These potato balls shine alongside dips such as ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic ketchup. Pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also make a fun finger food for parties or game day snacks.
Cultural Context
Mashed potato balls are popular in several cuisines as a way to transform simple potatoes into handheld treats. They blend elements of comfort food and appetizer culture perfectly, turning leftovers into something special. Using an air fryer modernizes this classic concept by reducing oil while keeping things crispy and delicious.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best inside the potato balls?
Cheddar cheese cubes melt beautifully inside, offering a rich, creamy center that pairs well with the savory bacon and potatoes.
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, you can boil and mash fresh potatoes, but chilled leftover mashed potatoes tend to hold their shape better when forming balls.
- → What is the purpose of the breadcrumb and Parmesan coating?
The breadcrumb mixture creates a crunchy, golden crust when air fried, while the Parmesan adds a subtle nutty flavor to the exterior.
- → How do I ensure the potato balls cook evenly in the air fryer?
Arrange the balls in a single layer without overcrowding and shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crisping.
- → Can these mashed potato balls be frozen before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed balls before air frying. Thaw slightly and adjust cooking time for best results.