How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
There’s something magical about the smell of garlic butter wafting through the kitchen. It’s the kind of aroma that makes you feel warm, cozy, and ready to devour something delicious. That’s exactly the feeling I had when I first made these Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs. These are everything you need when you crave something cheesy, crispy, and absolutely comforting.
This recipe is my go-to whenever I need a quick appetizer that feels like a treat. Growing up, my mom used to make the most amazing cheesy potato bites, but they were always deep-fried. Since I’ve become a fan of the air fryer, I’ve managed to keep all that cheesy, garlicky goodness without the guilt of deep frying. And let me tell you, these bombs are just as irresistible!
If you love quick, cheesy air fryer snacks, don’t miss our Air Fryer Pizza Bombs!
Table of Contents
What Are Air Fryer Potato Bombs With Cheese & Garlic Butter?
Why They’re So Irresistible
Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs are crispy, cheesy bites of comfort. Each one is packed with soft mashed potatoes, a gooey cheese center, and brushed in savory garlic butter. Air frying gives them that golden crunch without deep frying or the greasy mess.
They’re easy to make, quick to cook, and perfect for parties, snacks, or sides. These cheesy potato bombs aren’t just food they’re feel-good favorites, made to share or enjoy all on your own.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
When it comes to crisping up these Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs, the air fryer is a game-changer. It uses hot air instead of oil, so you get a crispy outside with less fat and fewer calories.
Plus, it’s faster and cleaner than traditional frying no oil splatter, no heavy clean-up. It’s healthier, easier, and still full of flavor.
Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
Equipment
- Pot
Ingredients
Potato Bomb Base
- 2 lb russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan optional
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs to help binding, optional
Cheese Filling
- 6 oz mozzarella or cheddar cheese cut into ½‑inch cubes
Garlic Butter Brush
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley optional
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Boil the cubed potatoes until fork‑tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let cool completely.
- Mash potatoes until smooth, then mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan (if using), and breadcrumbs if needed.
- In a small bowl, melt butter and stir in minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Set aside.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of potato mix, flatten into palm, place a cheese cube in center, wrap potato around to form a ball. Repeat.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush bombs with garlic butter and arrange in basket without touching.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Brush once more with garlic butter when hot, then serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Essential Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
Best Potatoes for Air Frying: Russet vs. Sweet Potatoes
Choosing the right potato is the first step in making Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs truly delicious. Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and mash easily, giving you that fluffy inside and crispy shell when air fried. Their neutral flavor also lets the garlic butter and cheese really shine.
If you want a slightly healthier twist, try sweet potatoes. They’re naturally sweet, higher in fiber, and still taste amazing with garlic butter and melty cheese. While they don’t get quite as crispy, they bring a new depth of flavor.
| Potato Type | Texture When Cooked | Flavor Profile | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russet | Fluffy & Dry | Mild, earthy | Classic crispy potato bombs |
| Sweet Potato | Dense & Creamy | Sweet, hearty | Fiber-rich, flavorful variation |
Tip: Let your potatoes cool completely after boiling before mashing. This makes shaping your crispy potato bombs much easier.
Choosing the Right Cheese for Ultimate Melt & Flavor
What makes Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs so irresistible? That gooey, melted cheese in the center. For the perfect melt, use mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. They melt evenly, stretch beautifully, and taste incredible.
Want a twist? Try adding pepper jack for spice or smoked gouda for depth. You can even combine cheeses for a blend of textures and flavors. Some cooks even mix cream cheese with herbs and garlic for a rich, tangy core.
| Cheese Type | Flavor & Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | Stretchy, mild | Classic melty center |
| Cheddar | Bold, sharp, gooey | Deeper flavor with crispy potato mix |
| Gouda | Creamy, smoky | Adds gourmet richness |
| Cream Cheese Mix | Soft, tangy | Pairs well with garlic and herbs |
| Pepper Jack | Spicy, creamy | Heat-lovers’ choice |
Mixing shredded parmesan into the mashed potatoes also boosts flavor and crispiness.
Check out Cheesy Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipes for more garlic-cheese magic using the air fryer.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
Preparing the Potatoes: Boil, Mash & Season
The foundation of delicious Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs starts with properly cooked potatoes. Begin by peeling and boiling russet or sweet potatoes until fork-tender usually about 15–20 minutes. Once soft, drain and let them cool completely. Cooling helps them firm up and makes it easier to shape the bombs.
Mash the potatoes until smooth. Then mix in salt, pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, and shredded parmesan if desired. This base should be flavorful but not too wet. If it’s sticky, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help it hold together during shaping.
Pro Tip: Always taste the potato mixture before shaping bland potatoes = bland bombs.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Boil | 15–20 minutes until fork-tender |
| Cool | Let potatoes cool fully after draining |
| Mash | Smooth texture with seasonings added |
| Optional | Add parmesan or breadcrumbs for texture |
Creating the Garlic Butter & Cheese Filling
The magic inside these Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs is all in the center. Start by cutting your cheese into ½-inch cubes mozzarella or cheddar are great options. You want just enough to melt without leaking out.
To prepare the garlic butter, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix in minced garlic, parsley, and a dash of salt. You’ll brush this mixture over the bombs before air frying and again after cooking for extra flavor.
Shaping the Bombs:
- Take a scoop of mashed potato (about 2 tablespoons).
- Flatten it in your palm.
- Place a cheese cube in the center.
- Wrap the potato around it and roll into a ball.
Repeat until all the bombs are shaped.
Air Frying to Golden Perfection: Time, Temp & Tips
Now for the fun part air frying! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Spray or lightly brush your air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Then place the potato bombs in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
Cooking Time:
- Temperature: 375°F
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Flip Halfway: For even browning
- Final Touch: Brush with garlic butter after cooking
You’ll know your Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs are ready when they’re golden brown, slightly crisp outside, and you can see a hint of melty cheese peeking through.
Looking for inspiration? Try Air Fryer Cheesy Tortilla Garlic Bread for another garlic-packed favorite!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
Too Much Cheese or Not Enough Flavor
One easy mistake? Overstuffing. Too much cheese can leak during cooking. Stick to small cubes for a clean melt. Another issue is bland potatoes. Always season your mash salt, pepper, garlic powder, maybe a little parmesan. A flavorful base makes all the difference in your Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs.
Skipping the Chill or Crowding the Air Fryer
Warm mashed potatoes are hard to work with. Let them cool before shaping. If the mix is too soft, chill it for 10–15 minutes. This helps your bombs hold their shape and crisp up better.
Also, don’t overcrowd your air fryer. Give each bomb room to cook evenly. And yes preheat your air fryer. A hot basket makes the outside crisp faster and better.
Check out Cheesy Garlic Flatbread Bites for more quick wins with your air fryer.
Nutritional Breakdown & Dietary Considerations
Calories, Carbs & What You’re Really Eating
Let’s break it down—Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs are indulgent, but when cooked in the air fryer, they’re lighter than the deep-fried versions. Each potato bomb (depending on size and ingredients) averages:
| Nutrient | Per Bomb (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90–120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10–14g |
| Protein | 2–4g |
| Fat | 4–7g |
The numbers vary depending on what cheese you use and how much butter is brushed on. Want to lower calories? Use less cheese or swap in light mozzarella. You can also reduce fat by skipping the second butter brush.
Keto, Low-Carb, and Gluten-Free Options
Craving Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs on a low-carb diet? Try swapping potatoes for mashed cauliflower or a blend of cauliflower and almond flour. It won’t be exactly the same, but it gets close in texture with fewer carbs.
For gluten-free versions, make sure any add-ins (like breadcrumbs or cheese blends) are certified gluten-free. Most basic versions of this recipe are naturally gluten-free if breadcrumbs are omitted or replaced with crushed GF crackers.
Looking for inspiration? Try Pita Garlic Cheese Triangles in Air Fryer for another snack-time idea with flavor and balance.
Conclusion: Simple, Crispy, and Full of Flavor
Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs are everything you want in a snack crispy outside, cheesy inside, and bursting with comfort. Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the flavor without the mess or excess oil.
They’re easy to prep, fun to customize, and always a hit whether for family dinners or quick snacks. One bite, and you’ll know why they’re a keeper.
FAQ about Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape your Air Fryer Crispy Potato and Cheese Bombs and chill them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook when ready no need to re-roll.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Definitely. Sweet potatoes work well, though the texture’s softer and a bit less crispy. Still tasty and slightly healthier!
How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 4–5 minutes at 350°F to keep them crispy.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
Skip the microwave use your air fryer. It keeps your crispy potato and cheese bombs crunchy and hot in just minutes.
Can I add bacon or sausage?
Yes! Add chopped, cooked bacon or sausage inside with the cheese for a heartier, protein-packed twist.
Discover more comfort food ideas like Garlic Flatbread in Air Fryer.
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