As I hovered in my kitchen, the remnants of last night’s dinner beckoned—leftover mashed potatoes waiting for transformation. Enter Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls, where comforting leftovers meet crispy perfection. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe effortlessly turns your leftover mash into irresistible appetizers. The beauty of these potato balls lies not only in their quick preparation and minimal cleanup, making them perfect for busy evenings, but also in their delightful contrast: a crunchy exterior that gives way to silky, flavorful bites inside. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable—think chunks of cheddar, smoky bacon, or zesty spices. How do you take your potato balls to the next level? Why Are You Going to Adore Them? Crispy exterior: Experience the satisfying crunch that comes from air frying, creating a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy interior. Effortless transformation: Turn yesterday’s leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal effort. Customizable creations: Add your favorite ingredients like cheddar cheese or crispy bacon to elevate flavor. Quick and easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have delicious bites ready in no time. Healthy indulgence: Enjoy the richness without the guilt, thanks to air frying! For more tasty ideas featuring creative leftover transformations, check out our Italian Meatballs Savory or Parmesan Chicken Potatoes. Mashed Potato Balls Ingredients For the Potato Mixture • Russet Potatoes – Base ingredient for texture; Yukon gold can be used for a creamier texture. • Milk – Adds richness and moisture; dairy-free alternatives can be used. • Butter – Enhances flavor and creaminess; substitute with olive oil for a vegan option. • Sour Cream – Contributes tang and creaminess; Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt works too. • Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for dietary needs. • Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; feel free to use white pepper instead if preferred. • Garlic Powder – Optional spice for flavor enhancement; fresh minced garlic can also be used. For Binding and Coating • All-Purpose Flour – Coats potato balls for structure; swap for gluten-free flour if needed. • Eggs – Binder to help keep the mixture together; flaxseed meal mixed with water works as a vegan option. • Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy coating; regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used. For Flavor Boost • Italian Seasoning – Adds herbs and flavor depth; dried oregano or basil can be substituted. • Cheddar Cheese – Optional add-in for flavor and richness; nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative. • Chives – Fresh garnish for color and flavor; green onions can stand in effectively. • Cooked Bacon – Optional add-in for flavor; can be swapped with vegan bacon or omitted for a vegetarian option. For Dipping • Dipping Sauces – Enhance enjoyment; try pairing with ranch dressing, sour cream, ketchup, or garlic aioli. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls Step 1: Boil the Potatoes Start by peeling and quartering your russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot filled with salted water, bringing it to a vigorous boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot, making sure to remove any excess moisture. Step 2: Mash the Mixture Using a masher or a ricer, mash the cooked potatoes until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add in your milk, butter, and sour cream, mixing well until the mixture is fluffy and creamy. This step is essential for creating the perfect texture in your mashed potato balls, ensuring that they remain moist inside. Step 3: Season and Fold Season your potato mixture to taste with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the moment to fold in additional ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese or crispy bacon for an extra flavor burst. Mix gently to combine without overworking the potatoes. Step 4: Cool the Mixture To make handling easier, allow the mashed potato mixture to cool completely. Spread it out in a large bowl or refrigerate for about 30-60 minutes. This cooling phase helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to form into balls later on without losing shape during cooking. Step 5: Prepare the Breadings Set up three shallow dishes in a row: one filled with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with seasoned panko breadcrumbs. This organized setup will streamline the process of coating your mashed potato balls and ensures an even application of each layer. Step 6: Form the Potato Balls Once the potato mixture is cool, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Roll each ball first in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it generously with panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy exterior. Repeat this step until all your mashed potato balls are shaped. Step 7: Chill Before Cooking Carefully arrange the coated potato balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place them in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes; chilling helps them hold their shape during the air frying process and enhances the crunchiness. Step 8: Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot enough for the potato balls to cook evenly, resulting in that desirable crispy finish on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Step 9: Air Fry the Balls Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the potato balls in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re golden brown and crispy all around. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy Once the air fryer mashed potato balls are perfectly golden, remove them from the basket and let them cool for a moment. Serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch dressing or garlic aioli for an irresistibly delicious appetizer! Mashed Potato Balls Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and personalize your mashed potato balls with these fun ideas that will tantalize your taste buds! Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, savory bite that elevates every mouthful. Bacon Boost: Fold in crispy bacon bits for that smoky flavor, perfect for any meat lover! Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a delightful kick that will awaken your senses. Herb Infusion: Boost flavor with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, providing an aromatic twist that brightens the dish. Vegan Version: Replace butter with olive oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs for a completely vegan option. Gluten-Free Coating: Swap panko breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to gluten sensitivities. Crispier Coating: Experiment with double dipping—after the egg wash, coat the balls again in breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy exterior. Flavorful Dipping: Create a zesty dipping sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. It’s the perfect pairing and adds freshness! Serve your mashed potato balls alongside scrumptious options, like Italian Meatballs Savory or for an aromatic kick, try some Parmesan Chicken Potatoes. Enjoy experimenting with these delightful variations! Make Ahead Options These Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps, allow it to cool, and refrigerate it tightly wrapped. Additionally, you can form the potato balls and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before air frying them. Just ensure they’re chilled well, as this helps maintain their shape and crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is air fry the chilled balls for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy—just as delightful as freshly made! Expert Tips for Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls • Don’t Overmix: Ensure not to overmix the mashed potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy texture in your mashed potato balls. • Cool Properly: Allow the potato mixture to cool completely before forming the balls. This prevents them from losing shape while cooking. • Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can hinder even cooking and crispiness. • Check Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time, as air fryers can vary in performance. Adjust cooking time based on your model for perfect results. • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to incorporate different seasonings or ingredients—like cheese or spices—into your mashed potato balls to take flavor to the next level. What to Serve with Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls Creating the perfect meal around these crispy delights is just as fun as making them! Creamy Ranch Dip: This classic cool dip complements the warm, crispy texture of the potato balls, enhancing their comforting flavor. Zesty Garlic Aioli: A smooth, garlicky sauce that adds a rich layer of flavor, perfect for dipping and savoring each bite. Fresh Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad brings balance to the meal, with crunchy veggies and a tangy vinaigrette to cleanse the palate. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized vegetables provide a delightful contrast, adding both color and nutrients to your plate. Crispy Chicken Tenders: Pair with a protein like chicken tenders for a heartier meal, bringing together crispy textures in a flavor-packed feast. Stuffed Peppers: Vibrant, stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices add an exciting twist, making for a vibrant table spread. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine offers a refreshing sip that enhances the savory notes of the potato balls, perfect for a cozy evening. Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich, silky chocolate mousse that contrasts beautifully with the crispy appetizer. How to Store and Freeze Mashed Potato Balls Fridge: Store cooked mashed potato balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked mashed potato balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, place refrigerated mashed potato balls in the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before air frying for best results. Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for mashed potato balls? Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using Russet potatoes, as they create a light, fluffy mash. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic alternative if you prefer a creamier consistency. How do I store leftover mashed potato balls? You can keep your cooked mashed potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or appetizer! Can I freeze mashed potato balls? Yes! To freeze uncooked mashed potato balls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm—about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, just pop them straight into the air fryer without thawing. What should I do if my mashed potato balls fall apart while cooking? Very! If your potato balls crumble, ensure that the potato mixture has cooled completely before forming the balls. Chilling the balls for an additional 30 minutes after shaping can also help them hold their shape during cooking. If you find the mixture too loose, you can add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs as a binder. Are these mashed potato balls safe for dogs? Keep in mind that you should always refrain from giving dogs any onion or garlic powder, commonly found in human food. Plain mashed potatoes can be safe in moderation, but it’s best to avoid any seasonings or additives. Can I customize the ingredients? Absolutely! The beauty of mashed potato balls lies in their versatility. You can add shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, or spices for a flavor twist. Just remember, if you add any extra ingredients, ensure they are fully cooked (if applicable) before folding them into the mixture. Crispy Mashed Potato Balls That Elevate Leftovers Delightfully Delightfully crispy mashed potato balls made from leftover mash, combining texture and flavor for an irresistible snack. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 ballsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potato Mixture2 lbs Russet Potatoes Yukon gold can be used for a creamier texture.1/2 cup Milk Dairy-free alternatives can be used.4 tbsp Butter Substitute with olive oil for a vegan option.1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt works too.1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste for dietary needs.1/2 tsp Black Pepper Feel free to use white pepper instead if preferred.1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can also be used.For Binding and Coating1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Swap for gluten-free flour if needed.2 large Eggs Flaxseed meal mixed with water works as a vegan option.1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used.For Flavor Boost1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Dried oregano or basil can be substituted.1 cup Cheddar Cheese Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative.1/4 cup Chives Green onions can stand in effectively.1/2 cup Cooked Bacon Can be swapped with vegan bacon or omitted.For Dipping1 cup Dipping Sauces Try ranch dressing, sour cream, ketchup, or garlic aioli. Equipment Air FryerLarge potShallow Dishesbaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Mashed Potato BallsPeel and quarter the russet potatoes. Boil in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to pot.Mash the cooked potatoes until smooth. Gradually mix in milk, butter, and sour cream until fluffy.Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Fold in any additional ingredients.Allow the mashed potato mixture to cool completely, about 30-60 minutes.Set up three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs.Shape the cooled mixture into balls, coating each in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs accordingly.Chill the coated potato balls on a baking sheet for an additional 30 minutes.Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.Air fry the balls for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown.Serve hot with dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 2ballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure not to overmix the mashed potatoes to avoid a gummy texture. Cool the mixture completely before forming balls. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
