Introduction
Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls are a crispy, golden snack with a soft mashed potato center and a gooey cheese surprise inside. Made with simple ingredients and cooked in the air fryer, they are lighter than deep-fried versions while still delivering incredible flavor and crunch.
Ingredients
3 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Cooking spray or a little oil for air frying
Instructions
Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Add egg, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well.
Take a small portion of the potato mixture, flatten it in your hand, and place a small amount of cheese in the center.
Shape into a ball, sealing the cheese inside completely.
Roll each ball lightly in breadcrumbs.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray the basket lightly with oil and place balls in a single layer.
Spray the tops lightly with oil.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
Description
These Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside with melted cheese in every bite. They make a perfect appetizer, snack, or party food that everyone loves.
Tips
Let mashed potatoes cool before shaping to avoid sticking.
Seal edges well to prevent cheese from leaking.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Serve hot for the best cheese pull.
Variations
Spicy Cheese Balls: Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Herb Cheese Balls: Mix in chopped parsley or chives.
Bacon Cheese Balls: Add cooked, crumbled bacon.
Stuffed Version: Use cubed cheese for extra melt.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Correction
If balls fall apart: Add more cornstarch or chill before cooking.
If cheese leaks out: Use less cheese or seal edges more tightly.
If not crispy enough: Spray lightly with more oil and air fry longer.
Enjoy
Enjoy Air Fryer Potato Cheese Balls fresh and hot with ketchup, garlic sauce, or spicy mayo. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and perfect for sharing.