Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491249H57M14S
Total time: PT-491249H57M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions; 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into delightful cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. These mini bites make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

The image shows several small, round, golden-brown cheese balls placed closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cheese ball has a crispy outer layer with a slightly uneven texture, showing hints of melted cheese. One cheese ball is held by a woman's hand with a silver fork piercing into it, revealing a soft, gooey, and creamy light yellow interior with visible melted cheese strands. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled on top of the cheese balls, adding a fresh color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, garlic powder if using, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
Step 7: Let the cheese puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes before gently removing them.
Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, savory snacks!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Make these gluten-free by ensuring your mashed potatoes do not contain any added flour.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for added richness.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of golden brown cheesy potato balls with a crispy outer layer and a soft, creamy inside. Each ball has bits of melted cheese visible on the surface, giving it a textured and appetizing look. One ball is being held by a woman's hand with a silver fork poking into the top of it, showing gooey melted cheese stretching out. The balls rest on a white plate with a few small green herb sprinkles on top. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use freshly made mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, freshly made mashed potatoes can be used, but make sure they are fully cooled before mixing to help the puffs hold their shape during baking.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely! Freeze baked cheese puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed container or bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.