Leftover mashed potatoes can sometimes be a challenge to use up, but with the help of an air fryer, you can transform them into a delicious and crispy treat. Air frying mashed potatoes is a relatively new trend, but it has quickly gained popularity among foodies and home cooks alike. In this blog, we will explore the history of air frying mashed potatoes, what makes them special, and what occasion they are ideal for.
Air frying technology has been around for a few decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it became a popular kitchen appliance. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, resulting in a crispy texture without the added fat and calories of deep frying. This makes it a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying methods. When it comes to mashed potatoes, using an air fryer can help to give it a crispy texture that was once only achievable with deep frying.
Leftover mashed potatoes are the perfect base for air frying as they are already cooked and seasoned, making it easy to customize the flavor with added ingredients. Air fried mashed potatoes are an excellent side dish for any meal or can be served as an appetizer or snack. They are also perfect for entertaining as they can be made ahead of time and reheated in the air fryer just before serving.
Ingredients Needed:
- Leftover mashed potatoes: Use the amount you have on hand.
- Oil spray: To lightly coat the mashed potato balls.
Equipment Needed:
- Air fryer: To cook the mashed potato balls.
- Baking sheet or tray: Optional, for shaping the mashed potato balls.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Mashed Potato Balls
- Take a small portion of leftover mashed potatoes and roll it into a ball using your hands. You can adjust the size of the balls based on your preference.
- Place the shaped mashed potato balls on a baking sheet or tray. Repeat until all the mashed potatoes are used.
Step 3: Air Fry the Mashed Potato Balls
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the mashed potato balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other.
- Cook the mashed potato balls in the preheated air fryer for approximately 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Flip the mashed potato balls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the mashed potato balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Tricks To Know:
- If the leftover mashed potatoes are too soft, you can mix in a small amount of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture and make it easier to shape into balls.
- For added flavor, you can incorporate seasonings such as herbs, spices, grated cheese, or chopped cooked vegetables into the mashed potatoes before shaping them into balls.
- Experiment with different coatings for the mashed potato balls, such as crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or grated Parmesan cheese, to add extra crunch and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the air-fried mashed potato balls as a tasty side dish or appetizer.
- Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, BBQ sauce, or sour cream and chives.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.
Storage Options and Shelf Life:
- If you have any leftover air-fried mashed potato balls, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- To reheat the leftovers, place them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: Can I freeze the mashed potato balls before air frying?
- A1: Yes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator before air frying as usual.
Q2: Can I use a different coating instead of oil spray?
- A2: Yes, brush the mashed potato balls with a little oil or melted butter before air frying. This will help them brown and crisp up nicely.
Q3: Can I add other ingredients to the mashed potato mixture?
- A3: Feel free to incorporate cooked bacon bits, chopped herbs, shredded cheese, or sautéed onions and garlic into the mashed potato mixture for added flavor and texture. Just ensure that any added ingredients are cooked and well-drained before mixing them into the mashed potatoes.
Q4: Can I make the mashed potato balls in the oven instead of an air fryer?
- A4: Yes, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the shaped mashed potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Q5: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
- A5: You can use instant mashed potatoes if you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes. Follow the instructions on the package to make the mashed potatoes, let them cool, and then proceed with shaping and air frying the mashed potato balls
Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Baking sheet or tray (optional)
Ingredients
- Leftover mashed potatoes
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Shape mashed potatoes into balls.
- Lightly coat air fryer basket with oil spray.
- Place mashed potato balls in air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- If the mashed potatoes are too soft, you can mix in a small amount of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture and make it easier to shape into balls.
- For added flavor, you can incorporate seasonings such as herbs, spices, grated cheese, or chopped cooked vegetables into the mashed potatoes before shaping them into balls.
- Experiment with different coatings for the mashed potato balls, such as crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or grated Parmesan cheese, to add extra crunch and texture.
