Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is flexible and forgiving—perfect for customizing based on what you have in your kitchen. Here’s a base recipe to start with:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 egg (to help bind everything)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (or chives)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor and crispiness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for structure)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick spray or a brush of oil
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Garlic powder or onion powder
- Diced jalapeños or bell peppers
- A sprinkle of paprika for color and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the muffins. This helps ensure a crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, green onions, and any optional ingredients. Stir until fully combined. If your mixture feels too loose or wet, add breadcrumbs a little at a time until you reach a firm, scoopable texture.
3. Shape the Muffins
You can use silicone muffin molds or simply shape the mixture into small rounds and place them on parchment paper in your air fryer. If using molds, lightly grease them with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
Fill each mold or shape each mound to about 2 inches in diameter and 1.5 inches tall. Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top for that golden crunch.
4. Air Fry
Place the muffins in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, checking around the 8-minute mark. They’re done when the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the muffins cool for 2–3 minutes before removing them from the molds or handling. They firm up a bit as they cool, making them easier to serve.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
- Kid-friendly: They’re fun to eat and easy to hold, perfect for picky eaters.
- Portable: Great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or picnics.
- Customizable: Swap the cheese, add veggies or meats—make them your own.
- Zero-waste: A smart and delicious way to use up leftovers.
Tips for Success
- Use cold mashed potatoes: If using leftovers, cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and bind well when mixed.
- Don’t overcrowd your air fryer: Space allows hot air to circulate and crisp everything evenly.
- Grease well: Even if using nonstick molds or parchment, a bit of oil helps create that crispy edge and prevents sticking.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate until ready to air fry.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you master the base recipe, try these fun variations:
Cheddar & Bacon Muffins
Add cooked bacon bits and extra cheddar. Serve with sour cream and chives for a loaded baked potato vibe.
Garlic Herb Muffins
Stir in minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of rosemary. Great with a dollop of butter on top.
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Muffins
Mix in cream cheese and diced jalapeños. Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
Broccoli Cheddar Muffins
Fold in small pieces of steamed broccoli for a veggie-packed snack that’s still cheesy and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer mashed potato muffins are versatile and can be served in many ways:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with eggs and bacon or a smoothie.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them on their own or with a dipping sauce like ranch or spicy ketchup.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted veggies.
- Party Appetizer: Stick a toothpick in each muffin and offer them on a platter with dipping sauces.
Storing and Reheating
- To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen.
- To reheat: Pop back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to re-crisp.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Muffins are proof that leftovers can be transformed into something exciting, delicious, and fun. They’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—a must-try recipe for anyone with an air fryer.
So next time you’ve got a bowl of mashed potatoes hanging out in your fridge, don’t just reheat them. Turn them into crispy, cheesy muffins that the whole family will love. Even better? They’re ready in minutes, and you won’t even have to turn on the oven.