Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re craving a savory snack that checks all the boxes for comfort food, then Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are exactly what your kitchen needs. These golden puffs are the perfect blend of fluffy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and a crispy shell that gives you a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or making a fresh batch just for this, the result is a bite-sized delight that no one can resist.

Perfect as a party appetizer, an after-school snack, or even a fun twist to your dinner side dishes, these cheese puffs offer versatility and loads of flavor. You can prep them ahead of time, freeze them for convenience, and reheat them for a quick cheesy fix whenever the craving strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These puffs are incredibly easy to whip up and an excellent way to use leftover mashed potatoes. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable with herbs, spices, or even bits of bacon for that extra indulgence. The combo of crispy outside and melty center is unbeatable.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Cheddar is the go-to for its sharp, tangy flavor and perfect meltability. But don’t be afraid to experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness, or pepper jack if you’re craving some heat. You can even combine cheeses for a more complex, cheesy bite. The key is to use cheese that melts well and adds punch to the fluffy potato base.

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These puffs come together with just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. You can make these with freshly mashed potatoes or even better, give new life to leftovers.

• Mashed Potatoes
• Cheddar Cheese
• Egg
• All-Purpose Flour
• Green Onions
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Garlic Powder
• Breadcrumbs

How To Make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prep the Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well distributed.

Step 2: Add Binding Ingredients

Crack in the egg and sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir until everything comes together into a cohesive, scoopable mixture. If it’s too wet, you can add a bit more flour.

Step 3: Form and Coat

Scoop out small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Then, gently roll each ball in breadcrumbs until coated evenly. This adds that delicious crispy texture when baked or fried.

Step 4: Bake or Fry

Place the coated puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet if baking. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. If frying, heat oil in a skillet and fry the puffs until crispy and golden on all sides.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Let them cool slightly and serve warm. The inside stays soft and cheesy, making every bite irresistible.

How to Serve and Store Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These cheesy bites are best served hot from the oven or skillet, when the outer crust is still crispy and the inside is warm and melty. They make a fun and comforting appetizer, a finger food at parties, or even a satisfying side dish for dinner. This recipe makes about 20 to 24 puffs, perfect for feeding 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry they are!

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven or air fryer to bring back that delightful crispiness.

What to Serve With Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Mini Sliders

Serve alongside mini beef or chicken sliders for a hearty party platter.

Cajun Potato Soup

Pair with a bowl of Cajun Potato Soup for a double potato delight.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Try them next to Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs for a sweet and savory combo.

Creamy Corn Dip

Add Creamy Corn Dip and a veggie platter for a snack-friendly spread.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

They also go beautifully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a cozy, home-cooked meal feel.

Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions

Double up the comfort food with Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions if you’re a true potato lover.

Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

Or balance the crisp puffs with juicy Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls.

Want More Potato Snack Ideas?

If you’re loving these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, here are more cozy and creative ideas to explore:

• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions for that crispy, savory bite.
• Cajun Potato Soup if you want something creamy with a spicy kick.
• Creamy Corn Dip for a cheesy sidekick that complements your potato puffs.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn to bring out sweet buttery notes alongside savory bites.
• Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls for a full snack feast.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or snack board so you can revisit it whenever you’re craving cheesy comfort food.

Did you make yours with bacon bits? Or added some jalapeños? Share your twist in the comments! Let’s turn this into a collection of everyone’s favorite potato puffs.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the kind of recipe that proves just how far a humble bowl of potatoes can go. With just a few additions, they transform into irresistible golden bites that disappear almost as quickly as they come out of the oven. Perfect for any occasion, they’re proof that leftovers can become the life of the party.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?