Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Crispy, Cheesy, and Comforting Little Bites of Magic!
Got leftover mashed potatoes? Don’t let them sit in the fridge—turn them into something incredible! These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are light, golden, and bursting with gooey cheese inside. They’re the perfect snack, side dish, or party finger food—and they’re so easy to make, you’ll wish you had mashed potatoes leftover every time.
What You’ll Need (Makes about 18–20 puffs):
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (cold leftovers work best)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 egg (for firmer structure, especially if your mashed potatoes are very soft)
- Black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor!
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease or line a mini muffin pan.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, Parmesan, and chives. Stir until everything is well blended. If the mixture feels too soft to hold shape, you can mix in one beaten egg.
3️⃣ Scoop and Fill the Pan:
Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin pan, filling each cup nearly to the top. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon for even shape.
4️⃣ Bake Until Golden:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy. They should puff up slightly as they bake.
5️⃣ Cool Slightly and Serve:
Let them rest in the pan for a few minutes, then pop them out and serve warm! They’re crispy on the outside, cheesy and soft on the inside—perfection.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheese Puffs:
Use firm mashed potatoes: Softer or creamier potatoes may need more flour or an egg for structure.
Mini muffin pans are magic: They help form that perfect bite-sized crisp edge.
Want extra crisp? Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Why You’ll Love Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs:
Zero waste, 100% flavor: A brilliant way to use leftovers!
Fast and easy: Just mix, scoop, and bake.
Crowd-pleasing: Great for kids, parties, or a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per puff, approx.):
Calories: 90
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 8g
Fat: 5g
Sugar: 0g
FAQ About Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake and refrigerate them, then reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up again.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze after baking, then reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.
Can I air fry them instead?
Yes! Just shape into small rounds and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
Jalapeño Cheddar Bites: Stir in finely chopped jalapeños for a little kick.
Herb & Garlic: Add garlic powder and a blend of fresh herbs for savory depth.
Perfect for Every Occasion:
Whether it’s game night, a holiday party, or a cozy night in, these cheesy puffs are the ultimate savory snack. They’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast!
Success with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs:
Golden, crispy, cheesy, and super snackable—these little puffs are the kind of recipe that makes you look like a kitchen genius with almost zero effort. One bite and you’ll be hooked.
Tried it? Tag us in your cheesy puff creations—we want to see that golden gooey goodness!