Crispy cheese potato balls are a delightful, easy snack or side dish. They are warm and comforting, perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how delicious they taste. These little bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This dish is fantastic because it uses leftover mashed potatoes, making it an excellent way to minimize waste. They’re quick to whip up, taking just a few minutes to prepare. Plus, the cheesy flavor is always a hit with family and friends. They are perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy dinner at home.
How to Make Crispy Cheese Potato Balls
Making crispy cheese potato balls is easy and fun. With just a few steps, you’ll have a warm, cheesy treat ready to enjoy. The air fryer makes them nice and crispy without all the added oil of traditional frying. Let’s get started!
What You Need
To make these crispy delights, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 egg (optional for binding)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for air frying
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the potato balls in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
How to Serve Crispy Cheese Potato Balls
These crispy cheese potato balls are very versatile. You can enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or side dish. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair perfectly with a fresh salad or a warm soup. Ideal for game day or family gatherings!
How to Store Crispy Cheese Potato Balls
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze them, place cooked potato balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Use any type of cheese you like for different flavors.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a touch of milk or a bit more egg.
- For extra crunch, try panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Ensure the potato balls are not touching in the air fryer for even cooking.
- If they’re not getting crispy enough, increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
Variations & Swaps
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Swap mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Add spices like garlic powder or paprika for a flavor boost.
- Incorporate some cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze the potato balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, you can use fresh mashed potatoes, but you may need to adjust the seasoning since cooked potatoes often soak up flavors differently.
Crispy Cheese Potato Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes Use any type of leftover mashed potatoes.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice) Any cheese can be used for different flavors.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Optional.
- 1 large egg Optional for binding.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- as needed Cooking spray or oil For air frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the potato balls in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
