Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about warm, cheesy mashed potatoes. Now, imagine that deliciousness transformed into golden, crispy puffs that are irresistibly fluffy on the inside and slightly crunchy on the outside. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to upgrade your leftover mashed potatoes into a fun, bite-sized treat that the whole family will love.

this Recipe

I first made these when I had a big batch of mashed potatoes left over from a holiday meal. Instead of reheating them the usual way, I decided to turn them into something new. One bite in, and I knew this would become a regular in our home—crispy edges, gooey cheese, and that nostalgic mashed potato comfort all in one bite.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful, cheesy bites! Whether you're looking for a way to repurpose leftovers or simply craving a delicious appetizer, these potato puffs deliver on every level.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a muffin tin, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Perfect for a quick snack or a simple side dish!

They’re also budget-friendly. Using leftover mashed potatoes and pantry staples means you won’t need to spend extra money on fancy ingredients.

One of the best things about these puffs is their versatility. You can easily customize them with different cheeses, mix-ins, and seasonings to match your preferences.

Lastly, these puffs are kid-approved. The crispy outside and cheesy center make them a favorite for little ones, and they make a great addition to lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs lies in a few simple ingredients that work together to create a deliciously crispy and cheesy bite.

Mashed Potatoes: The foundation of this recipe! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but you can also make a fresh batch. If your potatoes are very creamy, you may need to add an extra egg to help bind them.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for that rich, tangy flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a bit of Parmesan can add great depth.

Eggs: These help bind the mixture together and create that fluffy, airy texture inside the puffs.

Flour or Breadcrumbs: A little bit of flour or breadcrumbs helps absorb excess moisture and keeps the puffs from falling apart. If you're gluten-free, almond flour works well as a substitute.

Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika adds just the right amount of flavor. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also make a great addition!

You’ll also need a muffin tin to help shape the puffs and give them their crisp edges. A mini muffin tin works best for bite-sized treats, but a standard muffin tin can be used for larger portions.

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs couldn’t be simpler! Here’s how to bring them together.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a mini muffin tin with a little butter or nonstick spray. This ensures the puffs release easily after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and seasonings. Stir until everything is well incorporated. If your mixture feels too loose, add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help firm it up.

Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. For extra crispiness, press the mixture down lightly with the back of a spoon to create an even surface.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and slightly crisp. If you want extra crunch, broil them for the last 2 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Once done, let the puffs cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve them warm with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a bit of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Storage Options

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

Add Protein: Mix in crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even shredded chicken for an extra hearty bite.

Change Up the Cheese: Try different cheeses like Swiss, Gouda, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique twist.

Make Them Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Go Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs to keep these puffs gluten-free.

Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme add a lovely burst of freshness.

Experiment with different flavors and mix-ins to make these potato puffs your own. No matter how you customize them, they’re sure to be a hit!

So next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t let them go to waste—turn them into these crispy, cheesy bites of perfection!

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