Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about warm, cheesy mashed potatoes. But what if you could take that creamy goodness and turn it into bite-sized puffs of crispy, golden perfection? That's exactly what this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs recipe does! Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, these puffs are an irresistible snack, appetizer, or side dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

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I first discovered these little bites of heaven while experimenting in the kitchen after a holiday meal. Left with an abundance of mashed potatoes, I wanted to create something fun and unique—and these puffs quickly became a family favorite. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to way to use leftover mashed potatoes. These puffs are as delicious as they are practical!

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Simply mix, scoop, and bake—no complicated steps required.

They’re also a great way to repurpose leftovers. If you have mashed potatoes sitting in the fridge, this recipe transforms them into something totally new and exciting, eliminating food waste while giving you a treat everyone will love.

Versatility is another reason to adore these puffs. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a fun snack, they fit any occasion. You can even switch up the ingredients to match your taste preferences.

Finally, they’re irresistibly cheesy and crispy. The combination of melted cheese and golden-brown edges creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making these puffs totally addictive.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element contributes to the perfect balance of texture and taste.

The mashed potatoes form the base of this recipe. For best results, use mashed potatoes that are on the firmer side—if they’re too runny, the puffs won’t hold their shape well. If needed, mix in a bit of flour or breadcrumbs to help firm them up.

The cheese is what makes these puffs truly special. Sharp cheddar works beautifully, adding a rich, bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for different taste profiles.

Eggs play a crucial role in binding the mixture together. They help create that fluffy yet structured texture, ensuring the puffs hold their shape while baking.

A touch of garlic powder and green onions enhances the overall flavor. The garlic adds depth, while the green onions bring a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and potatoes.

For that perfectly crisp exterior, a lightly greased muffin tin is essential. This ensures each puff develops a golden crust while remaining soft and creamy inside.

How To Make This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Making these delicious puffs is a simple process that results in a delightful, crispy-cheesy snack. Here’s how to do it.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking and help create a perfectly crispy crust on each puff.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, garlic powder, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together until well mixed and the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Scoop the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. A small cookie scoop or spoon works well to keep portions even. Lightly press down to ensure each puff holds its shape while baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The edges should be slightly darker for that perfect crunch. Let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.

Enjoy them warm, fresh from the oven, while the cheese is still melty and gooey. These puffs are best served immediately, but they also reheat beautifully!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to get creative with flavors and ingredients.

For a different cheesy experience, try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a smoky Gouda. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor to the puffs.

If you love a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture. This gives the puffs a subtle kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and cheese.

For a heartier version, mix in some crumbled bacon or finely diced ham. These additions bring a savory, smoky depth to the dish.

If you want a lighter option, substitute part of the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. This tweak lowers the carb content while keeping the texture soft and fluffy.

No matter how you customize them, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are always a hit. Play around with flavors and make them your own!

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