Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy within, and downright irresistible, look no further than these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. This recipe is the perfect way to reinvent leftover mashed potatoes into bite-sized golden morsels, bursting with flavorful cheddar and a hint of garlic. Whether you need an appetizer everyone will rave about or a comforting treat to satisfy weeknight cravings, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs never disappoint—they’re a surefire hit for gatherings, parties, or a spontaneous kitchen adventure!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs so memorable is their humble list of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the dish’s comfort factor. With just a few simple pantry staples, you’ll create a snack that’s crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters.

• Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The base of this recipe, lending a creamy, starchy texture and making the most of any excess potatoes you’ve got.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Delivers melty, savory goodness and that satisfying cheese pull in every bite.
• Large Eggs: Help bind everything together so your puffs keep their shape beautifully as they bake.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and holds the mixture together, so your puffs are sturdy but tender.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of both the potatoes and the cheese.
• Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth that balances out the creaminess.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses each puff with that irresistible savory kick.
• Breadcrumbs: Coating the puffs so they bake up extra crunchy and golden brown.

How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready. Preheating is key for achieving that perfect crispy exterior on the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, locking in all the cheesy, creamy goodness inside.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the mixture is even—don’t be afraid to use a little elbow grease to break up any potato lumps and really blend those flavors.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds. Try to keep them uniform in size for even baking. This step is the perfect chance for little kitchen helpers to get involved, too!

Step 4: Coat in Breadcrumbs

Pour your breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl. Gently roll each puff in the breadcrumbs until it’s coated all over—this is what gives them their gorgeous golden crunch once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then arrange the puffs with a bit of space between so air can circulate. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are deeply golden and crisp on the outside.

Step 6: Let Cool and Serve

Allow the puffs to cool slightly before serving. This step is crucial—the centers will be steamy hot, and letting them rest for a few minutes ensures nobody burns their tongue. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them solo!

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Garnishes

Add a pop of color and extra flavor by showering your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs with chopped fresh chives, parsley, or green onions. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dash of smoked paprika also brings fun flair and appeal.

Side Dishes

These puffs shine beside simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of warm tomato soup. They’re also wonderful as part of a brunch spread or served alongside grilled meats at a backyard gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress, try serving Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs at your next party as bite-sized sliders, skewered on toothpicks for finger food, or arranged on a platter with an assortment of dips like sour cream, spicy aioli, or ranch. Their size and shape make them perfect for sharing and snacking in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs left (which is a big “if”), pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, keeping their flavor and texture mostly intact for easy snacking.

Freezing

These puffs freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead appetizer or snack. Arrange cooled puffs in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months—just label and date your stash.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for 8-10 minutes. This restores their crunch without drying them out. You can microwave them in a pinch, but you’ll lose a bit of that signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch! Just make sure they’re not too watery—thicker mashed potatoes make sturdier, crispier puffs. Adjust the consistency with a little extra flour if needed.

What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a blend work wonderfully, each adding their unique flavor and meltiness to the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Experiment to find your favorite combination.

Can I make these puffs gluten-free?

Definitely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs. The results are just as delicious, crispy, and satisfying as the classic version.

How can I make the puffs even crispier?

For ultra-crispy puffs, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones, and don’t skip the step of rolling them thoroughly. A quick spritz of cooking spray before baking can also help them get that extra crunch.

Are Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs kid-friendly?

Kids absolutely love these puffs! They’re easy to hold, fun to eat, and you can make them extra mild by reducing the garlic or pepper if your little ones prefer things more plain.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs enough—they’re creative, crowd-pleasing, and effortlessly bridge the gap between comfort food and irresistible party snack. Whether you’re using up leftovers or simply want to try something new, give them a spin and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!

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