Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun, delicious, and savory way to enjoy mashed potatoes. These little golden bites are crispy on the outside and fluffy and cheesy on the inside, making them the perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or want to make something new and exciting, these puffs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and the crispy, golden crust makes for a perfect bite every time. They are versatile, too—serve them as a side dish for dinner, a party appetizer, or even a fun addition to a brunch spread. Plus, you can make them in advance and simply bake them when you’re ready to serve!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Ingredients

3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the puffs from sticking.
Prepare the mashed potatoes: If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re smooth and creamy. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, ensure they are well-seasoned and cooled to room temperature before starting.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
Form the puffs: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small portions of the mashed potato mixture and form them into balls. Place each ball into the greased muffin tin, pressing gently to form small puffs.
Coat with breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the tops of each puff to give them a crispy exterior when baked.
Bake the puffs: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as a side dish or snack!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-15 puffs (depending on the size)
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Bacon: For a savory twist, stir in crumbled cooked bacon into the mashed potato mixture.
Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, mix in finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, green onions, or roasted red peppers.
Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for a fragrant touch.
Spicy Puffs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to give the puffs a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven for a crispy exterior.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but fresh mashed potatoes will yield a creamier texture. If using instant potatoes, make sure to follow the package instructions and allow them to cool before using.

2. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the puffs up to the point of baking and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!

3. Can I freeze these puffs?

Yes! After baking, let the puffs cool completely and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

4. How do I get the puffs crispy on the outside?

Coating the tops of the puffs with breadcrumbs and baking them at a high temperature (400°F) helps achieve that crispy golden exterior.

5. Can I make these puffs without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or use a mashed avocado for binding.

6. How can I make these puffs even cheesier?

To make them cheesier, you can add extra cheese to the mashed potato mixture or stuff some cheese in the center of each puff before baking.

7. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, you can use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile. They will be just as delicious with the cheesy filling!

8. Can I make these without a muffin tin?

Yes, you can shape the puffs by hand into small rounds and place them directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Just be sure to flip them halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.

9. Can I serve these puffs with a dipping sauce?

Absolutely! These puffs would be great with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

10. How do I know when the puffs are done?

The puffs should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can insert a toothpick to check the inside, and it should come out clean.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun and delicious way to elevate your mashed potatoes into a savory snack or side dish. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and fluffy, creamy interior, these puffs are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. They’re easy to make, versatile, and full of flavor, making them a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these cheesy puffs are sure to disappear quickly!

Chef MARTHA