Low Carb Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs (Air Fryer Recipe) – Crispy, Fluffy & Keto-Friendly
If you’re craving something savory, cheesy, and low in carbs, these Low Carb Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect bite-sized snack or side dish. Made with cauliflower instead of potatoes, these puffs deliver the same creamy, comforting taste—without the carbs! And the best part? We’re making them in the air fryer for maximum crispiness and speedy cooking.
Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, cutting down on starch, or simply want a delicious healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Low carb & keto-friendly
Air fryer method gives extra crispiness
Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfect for snacks, sides, and meal prep
Customizable with herbs, spices, and cheeses
Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons almond flour
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray
How to Make Low Carb Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs (Air Fryer Method)
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash and cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Steam them for about 10 minutes or until fork-tender.
Drain well and allow the cauliflower to cool slightly—cooling prevents the mixture from becoming watery.
Step 2: Make the “Mashed Potatoes”
Place the steamed cauliflower into a food processor.
Pulse until smooth and creamy.
Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Add Cheesy Herb Ingredients
Mix in:
Shredded cheddar
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Almond flour
Chives
Parsley
Garlic powder
Salt & pepper
Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick, like mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Shape the Puffs
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and shape them into small mounds or balls.
You can also use a mini-muffin silicone mold for perfectly shaped puffs.
Step 5: Air Fry the Puffs
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
Arrange the cauliflower puffs in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray.
Air fry for 12–15 minutes or until:
golden brown
crisp on the outside
soft and cheesy inside
Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the puffs cool for 2–3 minutes so they set properly.
Serve warm with sour cream, ranch dip, or garlic aioli.
Air Fryer Tips for the Best Results
Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed
Drain the cauliflower well to avoid soggy puffs
Chilling the mixture for 10 minutes helps with shaping
For extra crunch, add 1 more tablespoon of almond flour
Delicious Variations
Spicy Version
Add cayenne pepper
Splash of hot sauce
Red pepper flakes
Cheese Lovers Version
Try replacing or mixing cheddar with:
Gruyère
Mozzarella
Pepper Jack
Herb Boost Version
Add:
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Fresh dill or basil
Dairy-Free Version
Replace cheeses with nutritional yeast
Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)
Serving Ideas
These air fryer cheesy puffs pair wonderfully with:
Grilled chicken
Steak
Soups
Roast vegetables
Keto-friendly dips
Perfect for parties, appetizers, lunchboxes, or healthy snacking.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Low Carb Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs bring together crispy edges, cheesy flavor, and fluffy mashed potato-like texture—all without the carbs. Easy, flavorful, and 100% kid-friendly, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist.