Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: A Crispy, Creamy Delight

There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of mashed potatoes—except, perhaps, when they’re transformed into golden, cheesy puffs with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Ingredients & Substitutions

• Step-by-Step Instructions

• Baking Time & Temperature

• Serving Suggestions

• Storage & Reheating Tips

• Variations to Try

Let’s get started!

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Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Makes 12 puffs

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese like mozzarella or Gruyère)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)

• 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon

• 1/4 cup diced ham

• 1 tbsp chopped jalapeños (for a spicy kick)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Mix the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, egg, flour, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Stir until well combined. If using add-ins like bacon or jalapeños, fold them in now.

3. Fill the Muffin Tin

• Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture into each muffin cup, pressing lightly to compact.

• Smooth the tops with a spoon for even browning.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are slightly crispy.

• Let them cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Use a butter knife to gently loosen the puffs from the muffin tin.

• Serve warm with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a sprinkle of extra chives.

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Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are versatile and pair well with:

• As an Appetizer: Serve with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or chipotle mayo.

• With Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

• As a Side Dish: Great alongside roasted chicken, steak, or holiday mains like turkey or ham.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheating:

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.

  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes for extra crispiness.

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts (though they may lose some crispiness).

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Variations to Try

1. Loaded Potato Puffs

• Add sour cream, bacon bits, and extra cheese on top after baking.

2. Spicy Southwest Puffs

• Mix in diced jalapeños, a dash of cumin, and Monterey Jack cheese.

3. Herb & Garlic Puffs

• Swap chives for fresh rosemary or thyme and add roasted garlic paste.

4. Vegan Option

• Use vegan cheese, dairy-free mashed potatoes, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

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Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to turn simple leftovers into something extraordinary. With a crispy exterior, melty cheese center, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner, holiday feast, or game-day snack.

Try them out, experiment with flavors, and watch them disappear from the plate!

Did you make this recipe? Tag us on social media with your creations—we’d love to see your cheesy, golden puffs!

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Enjoy your cooking! 🧀🥔🔥