Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to reinvent those leftovers or simply elevate the humble potato into something positively crave-worthy, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are about to become your new go-to treat. These irresistible little bites combine creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheddar, and a crispy coating into a puff that’s golden on the outside and dreamy on the inside. Whether as a snack, a party appetizer, or a delicious side, this recipe captures comfort food at its finest—and will have everyone reaching for seconds the moment the tray hits the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish celebrates kitchen staples, transforming simple ingredients into a parade of textures and bold flavors. Every element counts—from the richness of the cheese to the crunch of the breadcrumb coat—making these puffs deliciously moreish every time.

• Leftover mashed potatoes (2 cups): The creamy base that gives every puff its pillowy softness and ensures nothing in your fridge goes to waste.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds gooey richness and a sharp, savory bite—feel free to try blends for new flavor spins!
• Large eggs (2): They help bind the mixture so your puffs stay together and bake up light and tender.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): A little flour goes a long way in giving structure and helping the puffs hold their shape.
• Salt (1 tsp): Brings out all the flavors—adjust to taste, especially if your mashed potatoes are already salted.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Freshly ground is best for a lovely, subtle warmth in every bite.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle savory aroma that complements potatoes and cheese beautifully.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret to that satisfyingly crisp exterior—panko will make it extra crunchy!

How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s fully heated by the time your puffs are ready to bake. This high temperature creates that signature golden crust while keeping the inside perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use a sturdy spatula or even clean hands to blend everything together until the mixture is completely uniform—this ensures each Mashed Potato Cheese Puff will have a bit of cheesy goodness in every bite.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Take a golf ball-sized portion of the mixture and gently roll it between your palms to form a ball. If things get a bit sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour or dampen them with water to make rolling easier. Aim for even sizing so every puff cooks at the same rate.

Step 4: Coat in Breadcrumbs

Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each potato ball through the crumbs, turning to coat every surface fully. This step ensures your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs will emerge with that craveable, crispy shell.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out so they crisp up on all sides. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until they’re deeply golden and crispy. The house will smell amazing—resist the temptation to dive in early!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the puffs cool for a few minutes out of the oven so they set up and are easy to pick up. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them as they are—they’re delicious warm and packed with cheesy, potato goodness.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and light, herby brightness that complements the richness of the puffs. For a little extra indulgence, a dusting of grated Parmesan or cracked black pepper on top is fabulous.

Side Dishes

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs make an ideal partnership with crisp green salads, grilled vegetables, or even alongside roast chicken or steak. Their versatility means you can serve them with virtually any main course or even as the star of your appetizer spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these at a party, nestle Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in a basket lined with parchment, or spear each one with a cute party pick. For a fun twist, offer a trio of dips like sour cream, spicy aioli, or tangy ketchup—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Their texture stays lovely, making them perfect for snacking or quick reheating for later meals.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, arrange fully baked and cooled puffs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to two months—just label them for easy grabbing any time a craving strikes.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the puffs in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until crisp and warmed through. You can also use an air fryer for maximum crunch. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that irresistible outside crunch.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes in this recipe?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work just fine for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs—just make them as directed and let them cool before mixing with the other ingredients. Homemade or leftover mashed potatoes, however, tend to have the best flavor and texture.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to swap in mozzarella for milder strings, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a bit of blue cheese for a more grown-up flavor. The recipe is wonderfully adaptable to whatever cheese you love most.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

If the filling is sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour, or dampen them with water before rolling each puff. A cookie scoop can also make portioning tidy and simple.

Can I make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in advance for a party?

Absolutely! You can form and bread the puffs a day ahead, store them in the fridge covered, and bake right before guests arrive for peak freshness and crunch.

Are these puffs gluten-free?

As written, the recipe contains flour and breadcrumbs, so it isn’t gluten-free. To make a gluten-free version, simply swap in gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs—it works beautifully!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a fun, mouthwatering way to turn basic ingredients into something memorable, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are your new secret weapon. There’s just nothing like the moment you bite into that first crunchy-gooey puff. I hope you give them a try soon—your taste buds and your friends will thank you!

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