Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: Crispy on the Outside, Creamy on the Inside
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a game-changer. Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are golden, cheesy, bite-sized delights that turn ordinary mashed potatoes into something exciting. They’re fluffy on the inside, crisp around the edges, and loaded with flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these potato puffs are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for melty goodness
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
- 2 large eggs to hold everything together
- ¼ cup milk to make the mixture smooth
- 2 green onions, chopped for freshness and color
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Make the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Mashed potatoes
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Milk
- Green onions
Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling almost to the top. For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top.
4. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
5. Serve
Let the puffs cool for a couple of minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve warm with sour cream, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Potato Puffs
- Texture check: If your mashed potatoes are too soft, add 1–2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs or flour to firm them up.
- Cheese swap: Try mozzarella for a stretchy bite or gouda for a smoky twist.
- Add veggies: Mix in corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Extra crunch: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Potato Puffs
A smart way to use up leftover mashed potatoes
Easy, quick, and budget-friendly
Bite-sized and perfect for kids and parties
Comfort food with a crispy-cheesy twist
Serving Ideas
- Pair with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked salmon as a side dish
- Serve at parties with dipping sauces like ranch, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli
- Enjoy as a snack with salad or soup for a light meal
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze in a single layer, then store in a bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen.
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Once you try them, you’ll want to make extra mashed potatoes just for this recipe!