Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

If you love finding delicious ways to reinvent leftovers, you’re about to meet your new favorite comfort food recipe: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. These golden, crispy bites are the dreamiest mashup of creamy potatoes, gooey cheddar, and a crunchy breadcrumb shell. Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer, a crowd-pleasing snack, or a fun side for family dinners, these puffs deliver everything you adore about cheesy potatoes but with a playful, irresistible twist. Bonus: They come together in a flash, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of basic ingredients to work absolute magic with these puffs. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to enhance either the creaminess, the flavor punch, or that irresistibly crunchy exterior. Let’s break down how each one plays its delicious part!

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: Using leftovers gives these puffs their ultra-smooth interior and makes them a genius way to reduce food waste.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The cheddar melts into gooey pockets for serious cheesy bliss and sharp flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help everything bind together so your puffs hold their shape once baked.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: A bit of flour keeps the mixture sturdy while ensuring each puff is light, not dense.
• 1 tsp salt: Salt awakens all the savory notes in the potatoes and cheese.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Just enough subtle heat to balance the richness.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder amps up the flavor for truly crave-worthy results.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Rolling each puff in breadcrumbs ensures maximum outer crunch once baked.

How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for turning your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs perfectly golden and crisp on the outside, while keeping the inside cheesy and tender.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix until everything is well integrated—the mixture should come together easily and be thick but scoopable. If your mashed potatoes are extra fluffy, don’t worry! That just means your puffs will be even lighter.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized rounds. If you have a cookie scoop, this step is a breeze. Otherwise, a spoon and slightly damp hands will do the trick. This is a fun step for kids to help with, so don’t be afraid to recruit some kitchen assistants!

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Pour your breadcrumbs onto a plate. Gently roll each potato ball in the crumbs until it’s fully coated—pressing just a little helps the crumbs stick and creates that signature crispy crust of Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. The coating creates such a satisfying crunch when you bite in!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each for even browning. Slide them into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the exterior is deeply golden and irresistibly crisp. Let them cool slightly before serving—just long enough so nobody burns their fingers grabbing the first one!

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Garnishes

For an extra pop of flavor and flair, sprinkle freshly chopped chives, a dusting of smoked paprika, or a bit of grated Parmesan over the top just before serving. These touches not only make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs look extra appetizing, but they add another layer of taste that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds!

Side Dishes

Pair these crispy puffs with a crisp green salad, a big pot of homemade soup, or alongside roasted vegetables for a plate full of texture and color. They also make a stellar addition to brunch spreads—just serve them with eggs and fresh fruit for a fun, savory twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs into a party centerpiece by arranging them on a platter with an assortment of fun dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo, cool ranch, or tangy barbecue. Or thread them onto skewers with roasted cherry tomatoes for a playful appetizer. However you serve them, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to wind up with extras, store your cooled Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days—perfect for quick snacks or easy packed lunches.

Freezing

These puffs freeze beautifully and can be prepped ahead for busy weeks. Once baked, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating

To revive that wonderful crunch, reheat your puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes if from the fridge or a bit longer if frozen. The oven brings back their crispy exterior far better than the microwave does.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes will work in a pinch and still give you a satisfying texture. Just make sure they’re not too runny—thicker mash yields the best puffs.

What cheeses work besides cheddar?

Feel free to experiment! Mozzarella, pepper jack, Gruyère, or a blend all melt beautifully and let you mix up the flavor profile of your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternatives and you’ll still get that lovely crunch and fluffiness.

Are these good served cold?

While best hot and fresh, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are still tasty at room temp or even cold straight from the fridge—a great option for lunchboxes or appetizers.

How do I keep the puffs from sticking to the baking sheet?

Always line your sheet with parchment paper; this keeps the puffs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. A light spritz of cooking spray can also help if you don’t have parchment.

Final Thoughts

Whether you make them for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are sure to be a huge hit. They’re fun, satisfying, and a delicious way to give leftovers new life. I genuinely hope you give them a try and watch them become a family favorite at your table!

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