Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than warm, fluffy mashed potatoes, but what if we took them up a notch? These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs transform leftover mashed potatoes into golden, crispy bites with a gooey cheese center. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a fun snack, they bring a delightful crunch with a soft, cheesy interior that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made these when trying to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes from a holiday meal. Instead of just reheating them, I decided to add cheese, eggs, and a touch of seasoning, then bake them until beautifully puffed and golden. The result? A deliciously crispy, cheesy delight that quickly became a family favorite.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with these crispy, cheesy bites. They're the perfect way to use up leftovers while creating something truly irresistible.

These puffs are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch ready in no time. Simply mix, scoop, and bake!

They're budget-friendly, making them an excellent way to stretch leftovers without feeling like you're eating the same meal twice. A little cheese and seasoning go a long way in transforming plain mashed potatoes.

The crispy outside and creamy inside create an addictive texture. The slight crunch of the golden crust gives way to a soft, cheesy center that melts in your mouth.

Perfect for any occasion, these puffs work as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or even a side dish for dinner. Serve them with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce to take them to the next level.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these potato puffs lies in the combination of simple, yet flavorful ingredients that create a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center.

Mashed potatoes are the base of this recipe. Whether they're leftovers or freshly made, make sure they're well-seasoned, smooth, and slightly firm for the best texture.

Cheese is what gives these puffs their irresistible gooey center. Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor, but mozzarella or pepper jack work wonderfully for a melty, stretchy bite.

Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold everything together and ensuring the puffs bake up light and airy. One or two eggs are usually enough to provide structure.

Flour or breadcrumbs help add structure and crispness. A little bit mixed into the batter prevents the puffs from being too soft, while a light dusting before baking enhances the golden crunch.

If you have a mini muffin tin, it’s the perfect tool for shaping and baking these puffs. It helps them hold their round shape and ensures even cooking.

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Creating these golden bites of goodness is simple and requires just a few easy steps. Let’s get started!

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the puffs once baked.

In a large bowl, mix together your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and a bit of flour or breadcrumbs. Stir until everything is well combined, making sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and place it into the mini muffin tin. Fill each cup just to the top, pressing lightly to shape them into neat mounds.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and slightly crispy. The edges should be set, and the centers should be soft but not wet. Let them cool for a minute before carefully removing them from the tin.

Serve immediately while they’re warm and crispy. These puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! These potato puffs store well and can be easily reheated for a quick snack.

To store, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready to be warmed up whenever you need them.

For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or until heated through. This keeps them crispy, unlike microwaving, which can make them soft.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these potato puffs is how versatile they are. There are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For a different cheese flavor, try adding Parmesan for extra nuttiness, or swap in gouda or Swiss for a unique twist.

Want some extra texture? Mix in crispy bacon bits or finely chopped green onions for added crunch and flavor.

If you love a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up.

For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour. The texture will still be crispy and delicious.

Don’t have a mini muffin tin? Simply shape small mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. They may spread slightly but will still puff up beautifully.

Experiment with different flavors and mix-ins to make this recipe truly your own. No matter how you customize them, these cheesy mashed potato puffs are sure to be a hit!

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