Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something irresistibly comforting about cheesy mashed potato puffs—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with gooey melted cheese in every bite. These golden bites of goodness are the perfect way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when trying to find a creative way to use up a big batch of mashed potatoes after Thanksgiving. Since then, it’s become a family favorite, showing up at weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, and even as a fun appetizer for game nights. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked!

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, cheesy delights. They’re everything you love about mashed potatoes—just in a fun, bite-sized form!

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you’re already halfway there. With just a few additional ingredients, you can have these puffs ready in no time.

They’re also super budget-friendly. Made with simple pantry staples like eggs, cheese, and flour, this recipe won’t break the bank.

Need a versatile dish? These potato puffs are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a grab-and-go breakfast. Plus, they pair wonderfully with sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce.

And let’s not forget the texture! The crispy outer layer gives way to a soft, cheesy, and flavorful center that will have you reaching for more.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make these puffs so delicious.

Mashed Potatoes are the star of the show. If yours are already seasoned with butter, salt, and milk, you may not need to add much extra seasoning. Just make sure they’re not too runny, or the puffs won’t hold their shape.

Cheese is what makes these extra indulgent. Sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice for its bold flavor, but you can also mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness or Parmesan for a more intense bite.

Eggs help bind everything together, giving the puffs structure and a light, airy texture. Without them, the mixture would fall apart during baking.

Flour or Breadcrumbs add just enough structure to keep the puffs firm while maintaining their delicate, pillowy texture. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crispier finish, while all-purpose flour creates a softer bite.

If you want to elevate the flavor, consider adding garlic powder, chives, or crispy bacon bits. And don’t forget to have a muffin tin on hand—it’s the best way to get perfectly shaped puffs every time!

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making these cheesy mashed potato puffs is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and help create crispy edges.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and flour (or breadcrumbs). Stir everything together until well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and scoopable—if it's too wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs.

Spoon the mixture into the greased mini muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Use the back of a spoon to slightly press down, ensuring an even bake. If you want an extra cheesy bite, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top before baking.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and the edges are crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when they easily release from the muffin tin.

Let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the pan. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always the case with these addictive bites!), storing them properly will keep them fresh.

For short-term storage, place the cooled puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

To freeze, arrange the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispiness better than microwaving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to get creative with different flavors and mix-ins.

For a healthier twist, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. They add a touch of natural sweetness and extra nutrients.

If you love spice, mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

Want a protein boost? Stir in crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage for a heartier version that works great for breakfast.

For a gluten-free option, swap out the flour for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to maintain the right texture.

No muffin tin? No problem! You can shape small patties and bake them on a parchment-lined sheet for a different but equally delicious take.

No matter how you make them, these cheesy mashed potato puffs are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and let me know your favorite variation!

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