Golden on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside—these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are everything comfort food should be! Whether you’re hosting a party, need a savory snack, or want to use up leftover mashed potatoes, these crispy bites are guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – You likely already have everything on hand.
- Crispy & gooey combo – Crunchy exterior meets melty, cheesy filling.
- Perfect for any occasion – Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or side dishes.
- Crowd-pleaser – These are always a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 12 puffs:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is fully combined.
3. Shape into puffs: Scoop the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and shape into balls with your hands or a small scoop.
4. Coat in breadcrumbs: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
5. Bake: Arrange the puffs on your lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re crispy and golden brown.
6. Cool and serve: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or sour cream.
Tips for Success
- Drain your potatoes well before mashing to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t overmix once cheese is added—it keeps the puffs light and fluffy.
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and promote even browning.
Make It Your Own
- Try different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or smoked gouda.
- Add herbs such as chopped chives, parsley, or dill for extra flavor.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes in the mix.
Storing & Reheating
- To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- To freeze: Freeze shaped (unbaked) puffs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
FAQs
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and bake at high heat. You can also give them a light spray of oil before baking.
Can I freeze mashed potato cheese puffs?
Yes! Freeze unbaked puffs and bake straight from frozen when needed.
What other cheeses work well?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or even a little cream cheese work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are proof that simple ingredients can create truly irresistible comfort food. Crispy, cheesy, and so easy to customize, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in, don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you expect!