Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Just when you thought mashed potatoes couldn’t get any dreamier, let me introduce you to Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. These little bites are golden on the outside, gooey and cheesy inside, and have the kind of irresistible flavor that makes them disappear fast at any gathering. Whether you’re using up leftover mashed potatoes or making a batch just for this treat (no judgment!), these puffs are a playful twist on comfort food that will win hearts and taste buds alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs come together with just a handful of ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in building flavor and that famous crisp-yet-creamy texture. Every item adds something special, so let’s break down what you’ll need and why you’ll love including it.

• Mashed Potatoes: The magic starts here — leftover mashed potatoes create the perfect soft base that holds the puffs together and delivers pure comfort with every bite.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is where the ooey-gooey factor comes in, infusing the puffs with sharp, melty goodness.
• Large Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping everything stick together while keeping the interior tender.
• All-Purpose Flour: A little flour provides structure, making each puff delightfully pillowy without falling apart.
• Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together — taste your potatoes first and season accordingly.
• Black Pepper: Adds just a nudge of warmth to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Garlic Powder: This pantry staple delivers a gentle background note that elevates the overall flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: The secret to that golden, crispy crust that you’ll want to sink your teeth into!

How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s piping hot and ready for baking. Starting with a hot oven guarantees that beautiful, crave-worthy crunch on the outside of your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use a sturdy spoon or even your hands to mix until everything is well incorporated — the mixture should be thick, creamy, and just a tad sticky.

Step 3: Shape Your Puffs

Scoop out the mixture by the golf ballful (a small ice cream scoop or spoon makes this even easier), then gently roll between your palms to shape perfectly plump balls. This is a great moment to call in a kitchen helper — it’s fun!

Step 4: Coat in Breadcrumbs

Pour your breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated, pressing gently so the crumbs stick — this simple step gives each Mashed Potato Cheese Puff its signature crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each for even browning. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway if you want them extra crispy all over. You’re looking for deep golden color outside and bubbling cheese inside.

Step 6: Let Cool and Serve

Take the puffs out of the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. The aroma will tempt you to dive right in, but patience pays off — a short rest makes them easier to handle and accentuates those contrasting textures. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and prepare for smiles all around!

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Garnishes

Add a pop of color and flavor by showering your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs with fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of paprika. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy aioli never hurts either!

Side Dishes

These puffs pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or alongside a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. They also make a fantastic finger food for game day, parties, or holiday gatherings — just stack them on a platter and watch them go.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in mini muffin papers for an elegant appetizer spread, or skewer them on toothpicks for easy grabbing at a buffet. You can even tuck them into lunchboxes for a fun, savory treat on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs (lucky you!), keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days — just make sure to let them cool completely before storing.

Freezing

Want to save a batch for later? Arrange the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Kept in the freezer, they hold up beautifully for up to 2 months — perfect for make-ahead entertaining or midnight cravings!

Reheating

For best results, reheat your puffs in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crisp, about 8-10 minutes. The microwave will work in a pinch, but the exterior won’t be nearly as crunchy as a quick bake.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes work just fine in this recipe — just prepare them a little thicker than usual for best results. The goal is a sturdy base that holds its shape.

What other cheeses can I use?

Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to mix things up. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a bit of Parmesan all taste fantastic and melt beautifully in these puffs.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The result is just as crisp and delicious!

Can I prepare Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape and bread the puffs ahead, then refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these puffs?

The options are endless — ranch, honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or classic ketchup all shine alongside Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Set out a sauce sampler and let everyone do their own dunking!

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a snack that combines crispy, cheesy delight with the nostalgia of mashed potatoes, these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are about to become your new go-to. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and enjoy every perfectly poppable bite — I promise, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat!

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