If you ever look at leftover mashed potatoes and think, “What am I even supposed to do with these?” — you’re going to love this recipe. Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls turn those leftovers into crispy, cheesy bites that taste incredible and take almost no effort. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with melty cheese. Basically, they’re everything good in one bite.

I make these whenever I want a quick snack or an easy appetizer. They’re simple, fast, and honestly way better than anything from the frozen aisle. Ever eat something and immediately think, “Wow, I should’ve made more”? Yeah… that’s this recipe.

Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potato Balls

1. They’re very easy to make

You mix everything, roll it into balls, and air fry. Anyone can do it.

2. They turn leftovers into something amazing

Leftover mashed potatoes go from “meh” to “whoa.”

3. They cook fast

You only need 7–10 minutes in the air fryer.

4. They’re cheesy and comforting

Warm mashed potatoes + melted cheese = pure comfort food.

5. They’re perfect for any occasion

Snacks, parties, holidays, game nights — they fit everywhere.

Ever wonder why air fryers make everything taste better? Because they crisp food without the fuss. FYI, these potato balls are a perfect example.

Ingredients You Need

Here’s your simple ingredient list:

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or both)

• 1 egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper

• Extra breadcrumbs for coating

• Cooking spray

Everything here is easy to find. No special ingredients.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

1. Mix the Ingredients

Combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix until everything blends well.
If the mixture feels too soft, add more breadcrumbs.

Cold mashed potatoes work best. Warm ones fall apart.

2. Form the Balls

Scoop a spoonful of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
Make them about the size of a golf ball.
If the mixture sticks to your hands, wet your fingers slightly.

3. Coat the Balls

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs.
Use panko if you want extra crunch — it works great.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Heat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
A warm basket helps them crisp up better.

5. Air Fry

Spray the air fryer basket lightly.
Add the potato balls in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
Spray the tops lightly.
Cook for 7–10 minutes, shaking halfway.

They’re done when they turn golden brown.

6. Serve Immediately

Serve them while the cheese inside is still warm and melty.
Dip them in ranch, marinara, or whatever sauce you love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the easy mistakes people make — and how to avoid them:

1. Using warm mashed potatoes

Warm potatoes fall apart fast.

2. Skipping breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs help hold the shape and add crunch.

3. Overcrowding the air fryer

They won’t crisp evenly if they touch.

4. Forgetting to spray them

A little spray gives beautiful color.

5. Adding too much cheese

It leaks out — and not in a good way 🙂

Ever wonder why your potato balls explode? Yep, it’s usually too much cheese.

Fun Variations to Try

Make them your own with these ideas:

Cheese Choices

• Cheddar

• Mozzarella

• Pepper Jack

• Swiss

Add-ins

• Bacon bits

• Jalapeños

• Green onions

• Leftover chicken

• Corn

Different Coatings

• Panko crumbs

• Crushed crackers

• Crushed cornflakes

• Parmesan + breadcrumb mix

Seasoning Ideas

• Cajun seasoning

• Ranch powder

• Smoked paprika

• Taco seasoning

These variations make the recipe even more fun.

Helpful Tips

Here are simple tips for perfect results:

• Use cold mashed potatoes

• Don’t skip the egg — it binds everything

• Use panko for extra crunch

• Lightly spray the balls to get a golden crust

• Shake halfway through

• Freeze the balls for 10 minutes if the mixture feels soft

These little things make a big difference.

Expert Tips for Extra Flavor

Want the best version possible?

• Use mozzarella cubes inside each ball for gooey centers

• Add extra garlic powder for more flavor

• Use Yukon Gold mashed potatoes

• Mix cheddar + mozzarella for perfect melt and flavor

• Add a little smoked paprika for depth

These upgrades take your potato balls to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

These potato balls go with everything:

• Ranch

• Sour cream

• Garlic aioli

• Marinara

• BBQ sauce

• Chipotle mayo

• Cheese dip

They’re perfect for:

• Parties

• Game days

• Holidays

• Movie nights

• Kids’ snacks

• Late-night cravings

Basically, anytime you want something delicious.

How to Store and Reheat

Store

Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze

Freeze uncooked or cooked balls on a baking sheet.
Then store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes.
They crisp right back up.

Print Recipe

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

These Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy, cheesy, and simple to make. They use leftover mashed potatoes and cook in minutes. Anyone can make them, and everyone loves them.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or scoop
• Air fryer
• Baking sheet (optional)
• Small bowls for coating

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or mixed
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup extra breadcrumbs for coating
• Cooking spray

Instructions

• Add mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl. Stir well.
• Scoop and roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls.
• Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
• Place the potato balls in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly.
• Air fry for 7–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Always use cold mashed potatoes for firm texture.

Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too soft.

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Freeze formed potato balls for 10 minutes before cooking if they feel too sticky.

Works great with mozzarella cubes in the center for a gooey middle.

Nutritional Facts (Approx per ball)

Calories: 80

Carbs: 9g

Fat: 4g

Protein: 3g

Fiber: 1g

FAQs on Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Bal

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Just make them thicker so they don’t fall apart.

2. What cheese melts best?

Mozzarella melts beautifully. Cheddar adds the most flavor.

3. Can I bake them instead of air frying?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes.

4. Why are my potato balls too soft?

Your potatoes were warm or you didn’t add enough breadcrumbs.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes — use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

6. Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Definitely. Freeze them before cooking.

7. How many does this recipe make?

Usually 14–18, depending on size.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls

Air Fryer Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are crispy, cheesy, easy, and absolutely addictive. They turn simple mashed potatoes into a fun snack with just a few ingredients and a handful of minutes. They’re quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Make them once, and you’ll make them again — trust me.
Now grab your air fryer and enjoy every cheesy bite