Description

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bite-sized snacks. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party finger food, these puffs combine sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives for a flavorful bite that’s golden and crispy on the outside with a soft, fluffy inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

For Preparation

Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the puffs evenly.
Grease Mini Muffin Pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent the puffs from sticking during baking.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh chives or green onions, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Mix: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the texture light.
Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full to allow room for the puffs to rise and crisp up.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Cool: Allow the cheese puffs to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin to firm up before gently removing them.
Serve: Serve the puffs warm to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for the best texture; fresh mashed potatoes may be too soft and make the puffs fall apart.
Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different tastes.
These puffs freeze well; store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven until crispy.
If you don’t have a mini muffin pan, you can use a regular muffin pan but increase the baking time slightly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, appetizer, snack, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chives, baked snack, party food