Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs 🧀🥔
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or whipping up a fresh batch, these puffs are a delicious way to elevate your spuds into bite-sized morsels of comfort. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering—or just for cozy nights at home.
Let’s dive into how to make these cheesy, golden puffs step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy : A perfect balance of crunchy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior.
- Great for Leftovers : Transform leftover mashed potatoes into something exciting and new.
- Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Perfect for Sharing : Ideal for parties, game nights, or family dinners.
Ingredients
(Makes about 20–24 puffs)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made )
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 green onions , chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional )
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Oil , for frying or baking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes , cheddar cheese , Parmesan cheese , eggs , milk , and chopped green onions . Stir until well combined.
- Tip : If your mashed potatoes are very dry, add a splash more milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Form the Puffs
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls between your palms. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Tip : For uniform shapes, use a cookie scoop or melon baller.
Step 4: Bake
- Lightly spray the potato balls with cooking spray or brush with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip the puffs halfway through baking for even browning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ranch, or marinara.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes : If using leftovers, ensure the mashed potatoes are cold—it helps the puffs hold their shape better.
- Add Mix-Ins : Stir in cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
- Fry for Extra Crispiness : For an even crispier texture, fry the puffs in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 2–3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Freeze for Later : Freeze uncooked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
Perfect Pairings
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs pair beautifully with:
- Sour Cream or Ranch Dip : Perfect for dipping and adding a cool, creamy contrast.
- Marinara Sauce : Try them with marinara for a fun twist.
- Soup or Salad : Serve alongside tomato soup or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Beer or Sparkling Beverages : Pair with a cold beer or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Puff, Approx.)
(Based on 24 puffs)
- Calories : ~80 kcal
- Protein : ~3g
- Carbohydrates : ~6g
- Fat : ~5g
- Fiber : ~0.5g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy mashed potatoes in a whole new way. Whether you’re using leftovers or making them from scratch, these crispy, cheesy bites are sure to impress. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheddar, and crispy exteriors creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, add mix-ins, or pair them with different dipping sauces to make them your own. So grab your mashed potatoes, roll those puffs, and get ready to enjoy a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
