Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 300 kcal

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Directions:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Form Balls: Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
  3. Coat Balls:
    • Dip each ball first into the beaten egg.
    • Roll in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
  4. Set Coating: Place the coated balls on a plate and refrigerate for another 10 minutes to set the coating.
  5. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  6. Cook Balls:
    • Place the potato balls in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
    • Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the balls and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes:

  • If your mashed potatoes are very soft, add a little flour to help the balls hold their shape.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute it with a vegetarian alternative.
  • Leftover air fryer mashed potato balls can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to crisp them up again.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 10g

Notes:

  • These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
  • The bacon and cheese contribute significantly to the fat and sodium content, so adjusting these ingredients can alter the nutritional profile.
  • Using a calorie and nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used will provide the most accurate results.