Who doesn’t love a crispy, cheesy bite of comfort food? These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are little golden bites of heaven—crispy on the outside, fluffy and cheesy on the inside. They’re the ultimate way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something spectacular. Whether you’re making them as a snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer, trust me, these puffs will disappear before you know it!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack—these potato puffs fit into any meal. Serve them alongside eggs in the morning, as a side for steak at dinner, or just pop them in your mouth whenever you need a cheesy pick-me-up.
Budget-Friendly
Made with pantry staples and leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a genius way to stretch your ingredients and make something absolutely delicious without spending extra.
Quick and Easy
With just a few simple steps, these potato puffs come together in no time. No fancy equipment, no complicated techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
Customizable
Want to mix in bacon bits? Go for it. Prefer a spicy kick? Add some jalapeños. Swap out the cheese for whatever you have on hand. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Here’s the magic of these puffs—they’re made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Mashed Potatoes
The heart of the recipe! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but you can also make a fresh batch just for these.
Shredded Cheese
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix—use whatever melts into gooey perfection.
Eggs
Help bind everything together, giving the puffs structure and a fluffy texture.
Milk
Adds moisture and helps create a creamy consistency.
All-Purpose Flour
A little flour helps hold the puffs together, ensuring they don’t fall apart.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder
For that extra burst of savory goodness in every bite.
Baking Powder
A small amount gives the puffs just the right amount of lift.
Salt & Pepper
Enhances all the flavors and brings out the cheesiness.
Green Onions (Optional)
Adds a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Cooked Bacon (Optional)
For those who love a little smoky crunch in every bite.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to the perfect temperature to get that golden, crispy exterior.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheese, eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined but don’t overmix.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your puffs don’t stick and come out perfectly crispy.
Assemble the Dish
Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. For extra deliciousness, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top.
Cook to Perfection
Bake for the recommended time until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The edges should be slightly firm while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This allows them to set and makes them easier to handle.
Serve and Enjoy
Pop them out of the tin and serve warm! Dip them in sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12-16 mini puffs
Calories per serving: Approximately 90 kcal
(Note: Nutrition information may vary based on ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Add to a brunch spread alongside eggs and fresh fruit.
- Make it party-friendly by serving with an assortment of dipping sauces like honey mustard, marinara, or chipotle aioli.
Additional Tips
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
- Crispier Texture: For extra crispiness, bake at a higher temperature for the last few minutes.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked portions in the muffin tin, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes! Just make sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape when baked.
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Try pepper jack for spice or parmesan for extra sharpness.
How do I make these gluten-free? Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend or cornstarch.
Can I fry these instead of baking? Yes! Shape into small patties and fry in a little oil until golden brown.
What can I add for extra flavor? Try adding jalapeños, cooked sausage, or caramelized onions.
How do I prevent them from sticking to the muffin tin? Use a non-stick spray or silicone muffin liners.
Can I make a larger batch? Yes! Double or triple the recipe as needed.
How do I keep them crispy? Avoid stacking them while cooling and reheat in the oven instead of the microwave.
What’s the best dipping sauce? Sour cream, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli all work great!
Can I make these dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk substitute.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to transform simple ingredients into something irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love? Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it!
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 mini puffs 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness! Made with leftover mashed potatoes, eggs, and cheese, they are the perfect side dish, appetizer, or snack. Serve them with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the muffin tin)
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
-
Mix Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- Add mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well combined.
- Fold in green onions and crumbled bacon (if using).
-
Fill Muffin Tin:
- Spoon the mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
-
Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
-
Cool & Serve:
- Let the puffs cool for 5 minutes, then carefully remove them from the muffin tin.
- Serve warm with sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup!
Notes
- You can swap cheddar cheese for parmesan, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavors.
- If the batter is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
- Use a regular muffin tin for larger puffs (adjust baking time to 25-30 minutes).
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg