Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls

Description

Crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside—these Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls are the perfect appetizer or snack. They combine creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese centers, coated in a golden crumb for a healthier, oil-free indulgence. Whether you serve them as party bites or a tea-time treat, they’re bound to disappear fast.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls

• 2 cups boiled and mashed potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cut into small cubes)

• 2 tbsp cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or coriander

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

• 1 egg (beaten, for coating) or 2 tbsp milk for vegetarian option

• Cooking spray or 1–2 tsp oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potato Mixture

   • In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and parsley. Mix well until smooth.

2. Shape the Balls

   • Take a small portion of the potato mixture (about 1½ tbsp), flatten it in your palm, place a piece of mozzarella in the center, and roll into a ball. Repeat for all.

3. Coat the Balls

   • Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, then dip into beaten egg, and roll again in breadcrumbs for a double coating. This makes them extra crispy.

4. Air Fry

   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

   • Arrange the balls in a single layer, lightly spray or brush with oil.

   • Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

5. Serve

   • Enjoy hot with ketchup, spicy mayo, or garlic aioli.

Notes

• You can use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.

• Ensure the mashed potatoes are dry—excess moisture will make the balls fall apart.

• For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions or green chilies to the mix.

Tips

• Cheese choice: Use mozzarella for stretch, cheddar for sharpness, or a mix for flavor depth.

• Freezing tip: Shape and bread the balls, then freeze. Air fry directly from frozen for 14–15 minutes.

• Crunch booster: Mix a little crushed cornflakes into breadcrumbs for more texture.

Servings

• Makes about 14–16 potato cheese balls

• Serving size: 3–4 balls per person

Nutritional Info (Per 4 balls)

• Calories: ~210 kcal

• Protein: 8 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fat: 8 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 380 mg

Benefits

• Lower in fat than deep-fried versions.

• Protein boost from cheese.

• Satisfying snack for both kids and adults.

• Easy to make ahead and cook on demand.

Q & A

Q: Can I bake them instead of air frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
A: Ensure cheese is fully enclosed by potato and double-coat with breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I make them vegan?
A: Yes—use vegan cheese and plant-based milk for coating instead of egg.