These air fryer mashed potato croquettes are little flavor bombs and a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes. The air fryer is an excellent way to cook the croquettes because you don’t have to use much oil. Adding eggs and cheese to the mashed potatoes makes for a rich and fluffy center, and panko crumb breading makes a crispy interior.
Two cheeses add flavor to the croquettes, along with fresh herbs and a little onion powder. The result is a fluffy and cheesy ball of mashed potato surrounded by a crisp, crunchy exterior. What better way to use leftover mashed potatoes?
Recipe Tips
- Panko crumbs can be quite coarse, and they work well in many dishes. However, I like to put the crumbs in my food processor for croquette breading and whirl them to make finer crumbs. They’ll still be crisp, just not as coarse and flaky.
- Check the seasoning in the mashed potatoes before you add the egg. The cheeses will add some salt flavor, but you should start with well-seasoned mashed potatoes.
- Before you start, soften your cold, leftover mashed potatoes in the microwave oven. It will be much easier to mix and shape the croquettes.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese: I love Gruyere or Fontina, but a sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese could add another layer of flavor.
- Bacon: Add crumbled cooked bacon or crisp pancetta or prosciutto to the potatoes for a fantastic smoky and salty flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are best, but in a pinch, you could also use a blend, such as Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence.
- Sour Cream: Add sour cream to the mixture for a tangy flavor.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Mashed Potato Croquettes
Dips: For a fabulous snack, serve the croquettes with a dip, like a mixture of mayonnaise and Sriracha or sambal oelek.
Sauce: Drizzle cheese sauce or béchamel over the croquettes for a luxurious side dish.
Fried Fish: Serve the croquettes with fried fish for a delicious twist on fish and chips. Add a side of coleslaw for a satisfying meal.
How to Store
Refrigerate the mashed potato croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Alternatively, vacuum seal them for even longer freezer storage. Here’s how: arrange the croquettes on a tray, freeze them, and vacuum seal them. Freeze for 6 to 8 months.
How to Reheat
Oven: Preheat the oven to 375 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange the croquettes on the baking sheet and reheat for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated and crispy. The minimum internal temperature for leftovers is 165 F (USDA).
Air Fryer: Arrange the croquettes in the air fryer basket and heat at 350 F for about 6 to 8 minutes or until heated. Shake the basket a few times to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Heat a few teaspoons of oil in a skillet and place it over medium heat. Cook the croquettes, turning frequently, until warmed and crispy.
PrintAir Fryer Mashed Potato Croquettes
Leftover mashed potatoes get new life in our recipe for air fryer mashed potato croquettes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Air Fryer, Potatoes, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Croquettes
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 large egg, beaten
For the Coating
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil or ghee spray (or another cooking spray)
Instructions
- Combine the mashed potatoes, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, and herbs. Mix well, taste for seasoning, and add salt and pepper as needed. Add the beaten egg and mix until well blended.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Shape the mashed potato mixture into balls and arrange them on a baking sheet or plate.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Set up a breading station with 2/3 cup of flour in one bowl, 2 beaten eggs in a second bowl, and the panko crumbs in the third bowl. Dip a mashed potato ball in the flour, then in the eggs. Let the egg mixture drip off and coat it with the panko crumbs. Place it back on the baking sheet or plate and repeat with the remaining balls. You should have about 18 to 20 croquettes.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, such as ghee or olive oil. Arrange 9 or 10 of the croquettes in the air fryer and spray lightly with the cooking spray.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Air fry at 350 F for 14 to 17 minutes, gently shaking the basket or turning them occasionally to ensure even browning. When done, the croquettes will be crispy and golden brown and should register at least 165 F on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center. Remove the air-fried croquettes to a warm plate and cook the remaining croquettes.
Credit: Diana Rattray - Serve as a side dish with a garnish of parsley. Or serve the mashed potato croquettes and a snack with your favorite dip. Enjoy!
Credit: Diana Rattray
Equipment
Breville Sous Chef 16 Cup Food Processor
Buy Now →
Buy Now → 
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1, 5 QT
Buy Now →This content may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
