Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls (Printable Version)

Golden mashed potato bites with cheddar, turkey bacon, and a crispy coating ready in minutes.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Mashed Potato Mixture

01 - 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
02 - 3 slices crumbled turkey bacon
03 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

→ Filling

07 - Cubed cheddar cheese, 12 pieces (about 1-inch cubes)

→ Breading

08 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 large eggs, beaten
10 - 2 tablespoons milk
11 - 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
12 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Finishing

13 - Cooking spray

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Combine mashed potatoes, crumbled turkey bacon, chives, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder in a bowl. Mix until evenly incorporated.
02 - Scoop a portion of the mixture, flatten it in your hand, place a cheddar cube in the center, then shape into a ball encapsulating the filling.
03 - Arrange three stations: flour in one bowl; beaten eggs mixed with milk in second; breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese in the third.
04 - Roll each ball first in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
05 - Place balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray them with cooking spray.
06 - Air fry at 370°F for 4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even browning, until the exterior is crisp and golden brown.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use chilled leftover mashed potatoes for improved consistency and easier shaping.