If you’re on the hunt for a savory bite that transforms leftovers into something completely irresistible, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are your new secret weapon! Imagine fluffy mashed potatoes blended with mounds of melty cheese, savory mix-ins, and a golden-baked crust that invites you in with every bite. Whether you’re using last night’s mashed potatoes or whipping up a fresh batch, these puffs are pure comfort, the kind of treat you want to serve at a family brunch, friendly gathering, or just as an indulgent snack for yourself. Get ready to create your next crowd-pleaser with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is beautifully simple, but each item plays a starring role in the big, bold flavor of the final snack. Don’t skip the cheese or the little extras—each one brings something special, from creaminess to crunch and pops of fresh herbs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The foundation for these puffs; using leftovers saves time and adds depth, but fresh mashed potatoes work too.
Eggs: Help bind everything together while adding lift and rich flavor to each puff.
Cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, Monterey Jack): Brings an irresistible gooey texture and sharp, savory taste; feel free to use a blend for extra dimension.
Optional Add-ins (chives, bacon, ham): Mix in these extras for a flavor upgrade—herbs for freshness, bacon or ham for smoky, salty notes.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, onion or garlic powder): Round out all the flavors and keep each bite balanced and savory.
Sour Cream (for serving): Adds cool, tangy creaminess to contrast with the crispy, cheesy puffs.

How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375–400 °F (190–200 °C), depending on your preference for golden color. If you’re using a muffin tin, give each cup a light greasing to prevent sticking and help the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs pop out easily once they’re baked. This step is small but makes all the difference for that crispy-on-the-outside finish.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Grab a large bowl and combine your leftover mashed potatoes with the beaten eggs. Stir in about three-quarters of your chosen cheese and all your favorite mix-ins, like chopped chives or bits of bacon. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and your favorite aromatics such as onion or garlic powder. The mixture should be thick, moist, and studded with spots of cheese and add-ins.

Step 3: Shape and Fill

Spoon or scoop the mixture into your prepared muffin cups if you want uniform puffs, or shape it into small balls if you prefer a free-form look (think rustic appetizer tray!). Fill each cup about three-quarters full, pressing gently to smooth the tops. Sprinkle the remaining cheese across each portion for that extra golden, cheesy crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, watching for the tops to become golden brown and aromatic. The cheese should bubble and turn crisp at the edges, and the puffs will feel set when gently pressed. Let the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them to avoid breakage.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your freshly baked Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs on a platter, dollop them with sour cream, and get ready to watch them disappear! Serving them warm lets the flavors and cheese shine, but honestly, they’re delicious at room temperature too.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way. Top your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs with extra chives, a sprinkle of paprika, a dusting of Parmesan, or a little crumbled bacon for extra style. A swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can help each bite taste even more fabulous.

Side Dishes

Serve these puffs on a brunch table alongside a crisp green salad or a platter of roasted veggies to add a fresh contrast. They also work beautifully as a sidekick to classic roasts, hearty soups like tomato or chicken noodle, or even a fluffy omelet for a breakfast-for-dinner twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs on a cake stand for a dramatic party centerpiece, skewer mini versions for easy handheld appetizers, or tuck them into lunchboxes as a cheesy surprise. For a cocktail party, serve them with a trio of dips: sour cream, herbed yogurt, and spicy mayo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs (lucky you!), let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge; they’ll keep well for up to three days, holding onto both their flavor and texture.

Freezing

Need to prep ahead? Once baked and cooled, arrange Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, store them in zip-top freezer bags for up to a month. This way, you can bake in bulk and enjoy cheesy bites on demand!

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat refrigerated or frozen puffs in a 350 °F oven for about 10 minutes (or a few extra minutes straight from the freezer). The oven ensures they crisp up again and taste almost as fresh as the day you made them.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade potatoes offer richer flavor, instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch—just make sure they’re not too runny. You might need to reduce any extra liquid to maintain the right consistency for your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.

How do I make these puffs vegetarian?

It’s simple: just skip the bacon or ham and stick to cheese and veggie add-ins like chives, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. You’ll still get crave-worthy, cheesy bites that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Which cheese works best for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Cheddar is a classic for its sharp flavor and meltiness, but mixing in some Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of tangy goat cheese can take these puffs to the next level. Experiment with what you have on hand for your own signature blend.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Definitely! Mix up your batter up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, scoop it into muffin cups, top with cheese, and pop in the oven—the convenience is unbeatable on busy days.

What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

No muffin tin? No problem! Simply roll the mixture into small balls and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The result is more rustic but just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about turning simple mashed potatoes into golden, cheesy bites that disappear in a flash. Try making Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for your next gathering or cozy night in—you might just find you’re looking for excuses to make extra mashed potatoes! Happy baking!

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: Around 25–35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 puffs
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a savory and satisfying treat. Packed with cheesy goodness and versatile add-ins, these puffs make for a tasty snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Ingredients

Leftover Mashed Potatoes:

Quantity: As needed

Eggs:

Quantity: 2, beaten

Cheese (e.g., cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, Monterey Jack):

Quantity: ~¾ cup, grated

Optional Add-ins (e.g., chives, bacon, ham):

Quantity: To taste

Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper, onion or garlic powder):

To taste

Sour Cream:

For serving

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Instructions

Preheat your oven: If using a muffin tin, grease the cups.
Prepare the mixture: Blend mashed potatoes with beaten eggs, most of the grated cheese, optional mix-ins, and seasonings.
Fill the cups: Spoon or scoop the mixture into muffin cups or shape into balls.
Add cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake: Bake until golden brown and set (~15–20 minutes at 375–400 °F).
Serve: Let cool briefly, then remove gently and serve warm with sour cream.

Notes

Experiment with different fillings like cheddar and green onion, Parmesan, Gruyère, curry, goat cheese, or Mediterranean flavors.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for crispiness. Freezing is also an option.

Prep Time: About 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: About 15–20 minutes
Category: Snack, Appetizer, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American