Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about warm, cheesy mashed potatoes. Now imagine them transformed into golden, crispy puffs with a tender, creamy center. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes while creating a snack or side dish that's impossible to resist.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while looking for creative ways to use up holiday leftovers. What started as a simple experiment quickly became a family favorite. The best part? These little puffs are quick, easy, and utterly delicious—ideal for weeknights, parties, or just indulging in some cheesy goodness.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that checks all the right boxes—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you're already halfway there!

They’re also budget-friendly. This recipe makes the most of simple, affordable ingredients, helping you stretch your grocery budget while still delivering big on flavor.

Versatility is another major plus. You can customize these puffs with different cheeses, herbs, and add-ins to suit your tastes. Whether you want to add crispy bacon, chives, or a little heat with diced jalapeños, the possibilities are endless.

Best of all, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these cheesy bites disappear fast. Even the pickiest eaters can’t say no!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making them irresistibly delicious.

Mashed potatoes serve as the foundation of this recipe. If using leftovers, make sure they’re well-seasoned and creamy for the best results. If making fresh, be sure to mash them until smooth for a fluffy texture.

Cheese is the star of the show. A combination of shredded cheddar and parmesan adds the perfect balance of sharpness and gooey meltiness. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or gruyère for a fun twist.

Eggs act as a binder, helping the potato mixture hold its shape while baking. They also contribute to the light and fluffy interior of the puffs.

Flour or breadcrumbs provide structure and help create that irresistible crispiness. A little goes a long way, ensuring the puffs hold up without becoming too dense.

Lastly, seasonings and mix-ins bring extra depth to the flavor. Garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of salt enhance the overall taste, while fresh chives or green onions add a pop of freshness.

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making these delicious puffs is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a batch ready in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a mini muffin tin. This helps ensure the puffs don’t stick and achieve that golden-brown crispiness.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and flour or breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and drop it into the greased mini muffin tin. Fill each cup to the top and lightly press down to ensure even baking.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and slightly crispy. The cheese will bubble and create a beautifully crisp crust while keeping the inside soft and creamy.

Let the puffs cool for a couple of minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. They should pop right out with ease. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream or a tangy marinara.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs store well. Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, arrange the cooled puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months.

For reheating, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for an extra crispy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

If you’re looking for extra protein, mix in some cooked and crumbled bacon, ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.

For a herby twist, try adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.

To make them gluten-free, substitute the flour or breadcrumbs with an alternative like almond flour or gluten-free panko.

However you customize them, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy every bite!

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