Cheesy Potato Puffs (Air Fryer Recipe)
Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these air fryer Cheesy Potato Puffs are an irresistible snack or appetizer!
Made with mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, they cook up golden brown and delicious in just minutes. Perfect for dipping in sour cream, ranch, or spicy mayo!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 (makes about 16 puffs)
Ingredients
For the Potato Puffs:
2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made, cooled)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a gooey center)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (adds extra flavor!)
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, for texture)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds a smoky touch)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For Coating (Optional for Extra Crunch):
½ cup additional breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil spray
For Dipping (Optional):
Sour cream
Spicy mayo
Ranch dressing
Instructions
Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape. (If too soft, add a little more breadcrumbs.)
Shape the Puffs
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a small ball.
Repeat with the remaining mixture to form about 16 potato puffs.
(Optional) Roll each puff in extra breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
Air Fry the Potato Puffs
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Place the potato puffs in the basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
Lightly spray the tops with oil for extra crispiness.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy!
Sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Serve warm with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips & Tricks
Make Ahead – Shape the potato puffs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Crispier Texture – For an extra crunchy bite, coat the puffs in panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
Cheese Variations – Swap out cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for different flavors.
Leftover Mashed Potatoes Work Great! – If using cold mashed potatoes, let them sit at room temp for 10 minutes before mixing.
Storage & Reheating – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per 4 Puffs)
(Approximate values, depends on ingredients used)
Calories: 180-200 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg