Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something irresistible about crispy, golden bites of cheesy mashed potato puffs fresh from the oven. With a soft, creamy interior and a delightfully crisp exterior, these bite-sized treats are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes in the most delicious way possible.

I first made these when I had a hefty batch of mashed potatoes left over from a holiday dinner. Rather than reheating them as-is, I decided to transform them into something fun and snackable. The result? A family favorite that disappears as soon as it's served.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, cheesy bites! Whether you're looking for a tasty appetizer, an easy side dish, or a quick snack, these potato puffs will hit the spot.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. If you already have leftover mashed potatoes, the hardest part is done! Just mix, scoop, and bake—no frying required.

They’re also super customizable. Whether you prefer sharp cheddar, gooey mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack, you can tailor the cheese to your liking. Plus, adding bacon bits, chives, or even a pinch of garlic powder can bring extra depth of flavor.

Budget-friendly and waste-free, this recipe helps you make the most out of leftovers. Instead of throwing away mashed potatoes, turn them into something special with just a few pantry staples.

Best of all, they’re crowd-pleasers. Kids and adults alike can’t resist these cheesy, crispy bites. Serve them at a party, pack them in a lunchbox, or enjoy them as an afternoon snack!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cheesy mashed potato puffs lies in their simple ingredients, each one working together to create a crispy, fluffy delight.

Mashed potatoes form the base of this recipe. If they’re a bit stiff from being refrigerated, warm them slightly so they mix more easily. The creaminess of the mash directly impacts the texture of the puffs, so use a recipe that includes butter and milk for best results.

Cheese is what makes these puffs irresistibly melty and flavorful. Sharp cheddar provides a bold taste, while mozzarella adds a stretchy, gooey texture. For extra kick, try using a mix of cheeses.

Eggs act as a binding agent, helping the puffs hold their shape while baking. Without them, the mixture would be too loose and wouldn’t set properly in the oven.

Flour or breadcrumbs provide structure and ensure a light, fluffy texture. If your mashed potatoes are on the wetter side, adding a little flour or breadcrumbs will help firm up the mixture.

A muffin tin is the perfect tool for baking these puffs. It helps them keep their shape and develop an evenly crisp exterior while staying soft inside.

How To Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making these cheesy mashed potato puffs is as easy as mixing, scooping, and baking. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the puffs release easily after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and a small amount of flour or breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If it feels too soft, add a little extra flour until it holds its shape.

Using a small scoop or spoon, portion the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Lightly press down to compact them so they bake evenly.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Once done, let the puffs cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm with sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), these mashed potato puffs store well and reheat beautifully.

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.

For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand.

For a meaty twist, add crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even shredded chicken to the mixture before baking.

Want a veggie-packed version? Stir in finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the structure intact.

For a spicier kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or finely diced jalapeños to bring some heat to each bite.

Experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination—gruyere, pepper jack, or even blue cheese can add a unique twist to these puffs!

With so many ways to customize them, these cheesy mashed potato puffs are bound to become a staple in your home. Whip up a batch and enjoy the crispy, creamy, cheesy goodness!

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