Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
If you’re searching for a way to breathe new life into those leftover mashed potatoes, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are about to become your new obsession. Imagine fluffy clouds of potato, packed with gooey cheddar and a hint of savory Parmesan, all baked into perfectly golden, hand-held bites. These puffs are crispy on the outside, creamy within, and impossibly addictive—whether you serve them as a snack, a party appetizer, or a fun twist on the usual side dish. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making extra mashed potatoes just for the excuse to whip up a batch of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is how you probably already have everything you need in your fridge right now. Each ingredient has a purpose—whether it’s adding creaminess, a punch of flavor, or that irresistible cheesy pull—so don’t skip a single one if you want the full experience.
- Mashed potatoes (2 cups, cold): Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, and cold potatoes make for the best puffs because they hold their shape.
- Large eggs (2): The eggs bind everything together, so your puffs stay fluffy and don’t fall apart.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Cheddar brings that melty, gooey factor you crave in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick and helps the tops brown beautifully.
- Chopped green onions (¼ cup): These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint of garlic brings the whole flavor profile together.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): A touch of salt enhances every other ingredient and keeps the flavors balanced.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Pepper adds a gentle warmth and depth.
- Nonstick cooking spray: This keeps your puffs from sticking, so you get those perfect golden edges.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Step 1: Prep Your Muffin Tin and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which will give you that gorgeous golden finish. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray to ensure your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs pop right out after baking—no sticking, no mess, just pure crispy goodness.
Step 2: Mix the Potato Puff Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your cold mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until the mixture is creamy, cheesy, and well blended. This is where the magic starts—the mixture should look thick but scoopable, almost like a hearty potato salad.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, divide the potato mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each almost to the top. Don’t be afraid to pack them in a little; this helps each puff hold its shape and get those irresistible golden edges.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the filled muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are ready when the tops are deeply golden, slightly crisp, and your kitchen smells like cheesy heaven. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before removing—this helps them set up and makes them easier to handle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Gently run a thin spatula or butter knife around each puff and lift them out. Serve warm, when the cheese is still gooey and stretchy. They make a fantastic side dish or a crowd-pleasing snack!
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra green onions or a dusting of Parmesan on top right after baking elevates these puffs with color and flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce takes them straight to appetizer heaven.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are super versatile! Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad to create a cozy, well-rounded meal. They’re especially great alongside soups, like creamy tomato or vegetable, for a comforting dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these puffs on a platter with toothpicks for a party-ready finger food, or tuck them into lunchboxes as a fun, savory surprise. Stack them high on a rustic board with dips like ranch or sriracha mayo for a snack spread that disappears in minutes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Their texture stays surprisingly good, and they make a quick grab-and-go snack or side for busy days.
Freezing
These puffs freeze beautifully! Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just pull out as many as you need and reheat for an instant snack or side.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5-8 minutes, until hot and crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the puffs won’t have that deliciously crisp exterior.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes or boxed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant or boxed mashed potatoes, just make sure they’re thick and not too runny. The flavor and texture may change slightly, but your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs will still be tasty and satisfying.
What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar and Parmesan?
Absolutely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or a smoked gouda add their own unique spin. Try mixing cheeses for a more complex flavor, or use what you have on hand for a fun twist on the original recipe.
How do I keep the puffs from sticking to the pan?
A thorough coating of nonstick spray is key. You can also use silicone muffin liners for even easier removal. Letting the puffs rest for a few minutes after baking helps them firm up and release cleanly from the pan.
Can I add meat or extra veggies?
Definitely! Chopped cooked bacon, ham, or finely diced bell peppers make delicious additions. Keep any mix-ins small so the puffs hold together well, and don’t overload the batter with too many extras.
Do Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs work for meal prep?
They’re perfect for meal prep! Make a batch ahead of time, store in the fridge or freezer, and reheat as needed for quick lunches, snacks, or sides throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with a new comfort food, give Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs a try. They’re easy, fun, and endlessly customizable—plus they make even plain leftovers feel like something special. Go whip up a batch and enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, a perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden-baked snack or side dish. Packed with savory cheeses and a hint of garlic, these puffs are easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Baking
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top for well-shaped puffs.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops of the puffs are golden brown and have a slightly crispy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Let the puffs cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before removing them. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or savory snack.
Notes
- These puffs work wonderfully with leftover mashed potatoes, making them a great way to reduce food waste.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in chopped cooked bacon or switching up the cheese to Gruyère or mozzarella.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
