Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

A warm, cheesy snack made from leftover mashed potatoes.

introduction

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are small, crispy bites that taste like comfort food. They cook fast and use simple ingredients. These puffs go nicely with soups or sandwiches; see ideas for the best sandwich to serve with potato soup.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe when you have leftover mashed potatoes. It turns plain mash into a fun snack or side. The puffs are cheesy, soft inside, and crisp outside. They save food and please kids and adults. If you want to serve them with soup, you can also learn how to thicken potato soup in a crock pot so the meal feels hearty.

how to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

1. Mix chilled mashed potatoes with the egg, shredded cheddar, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add just enough flour so the mixture holds its shape.
3. Shape the mix into 1-inch balls with your hands.
4. Roll each ball in Parmesan cheese to coat well.
5. Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.
7. Remove and top with extra chives. Serve hot.

Ingredients :

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped chives (to taste)
• Flour (as needed)
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (for coating)

Directions :

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
• Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
• Roll each ball in Parmesan cheese until fully coated.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Remove from oven, top with extra chives if desired, and serve hot.

how to serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Serve them hot as an appetizer, snack, or side. They go well with sour cream, ranch, or a simple garlic dip. Put them on a platter for a party or serve with a bowl of soup and a salad. For a different side idea, try a dish like loaded sweet potato nachos.

how to store Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Cool puffs to room temperature before storing. Put them in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to make them crispy again. You can freeze the shaped, coated puffs on a tray, then move to a bag; bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes.

tips to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

• Use chilled mashed potatoes so the mix is not too wet.
• Add flour slowly; you want a soft but shapeable mix.
• Press the balls slightly if you want a flatter puff for quicker crisping.
• Use fresh Parmesan for better coating and flavor.
• If you plan to serve with fish, read about sweet potatoes and fish together to see what pairs well.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheese pull.
• Mix in cooked green onions or finely chopped roasted peppers.
• Make mini puffs or larger ones; just adjust bake time.

FAQs

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: You can, but fresh or real mashed potatoes work best for texture.

Q: Do I have to bake them?
A: Baking makes them crisp and easy. You can fry them in oil until golden, but watch the time.

Q: Can I make them ahead?
A: Yes. Shape and coat the puffs, then freeze on a tray. Store in a bag and bake from frozen when ready.

Q: How do I make them less greasy?
A: Bake on a rack or use parchment and avoid too much oil. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Emma sarlot

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy bites made from leftover mashed potatoes, perfect as a snack or side dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 80

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes Use chilled mashed potatoes for best texture.
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese You can substitute with pepper jack or mozzarella.
• to taste chopped chives Add to your preference.
• as needed tablespoons flour Add gradually to hold mixture shape.
• to taste garlic powder
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• for coating grams Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for better flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
3. Roll each ball in Parmesan cheese until fully coated.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cooking

1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
2. Remove from oven, top with extra chives if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Serve with sour cream, ranch, or a simple garlic dip. Store cooled puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes.