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Crispy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls: A Delicious Treat

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make snack or side dish, look no further than Crispy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls. With their golden-brown exterior and fluffy interior, these little balls are sure to impress anyone who tastes them. Not only do they provide a delightful crunch, but they also offer a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for a quick appetiser or a side dish at your next gathering.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. They provide a method of cooking that reduces the amount of oil needed while creating a crispy finish that rivals deep frying. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a texture that’s just as satisfying without the added calories and mess of traditional frying. Plus, the convenience of an air fryer means you’ll have more time to enjoy your food with friends and family.

Ingredients

To make Crispy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes (preferably cold)
• 1/2 cup of grated cheese (cheddar works wonderfully)
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives (or spring onions)
• 1/4 cup of cooked bacon bits (optional for a meaty twist)
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
• 1 large egg (beaten)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chives, bacon bits (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

2. Form the Balls:
   With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized balls. You should be able to make about 12 to 15 balls, depending on the size. Once shaped, set the balls aside on a plate or tray.

3. Coat the Balls:
   Dip each ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s completely covered. This coating will give your mashed potato balls that much-loved crispy texture.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the balls to cook evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.

5. Air Fry the Balls:
   Place the coated mashed potato balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between them for air to circulate. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

6. Cooking Time:
   Air fry the balls for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown and incredibly crispy.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once cooked, remove the balls from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These crispy delights are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ketchup, or even a tangy mayonnaise.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Mashed Potato Balls are a fantastic way to transform leftovers into a mouth-watering treat. Perfect for party nibbles, game day snacks, or even as a quick evening meal, these little balls are sure to become a new favourite in your household. Enjoy the satisfying crunch paired with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes in every bite. Give this recipe a go, and you’ll have a delicious dish that showcases the wonders of the air fryer!

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