Easy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Mashed Potatoes into Golden, Crispy Appetizers

These crispy cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes! Golden brown on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside. Great as appetizers, snacks, or side dishes for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses leftover mashed potatoes – No food waste!
• Ready in 30 minutes – Quick and easy to make
• Kid-friendly – Children love these bite-sized treats
• Crowd-pleasing appetizer – Perfect for parties and gatherings
• Crispy outside, creamy inside – Amazing texture combination
• Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and bake later

Recipe Ingredients

What You’ll Need:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made, cooled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating the puffs)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

Makes: 24-30 puffs
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F (190°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Grease a large baking sheet with butter or cooking spray
3. OR line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Tip: If making a large batch, prepare two baking sheets so the puffs aren’t crowded.

Step 2: Mix All the Ingredients

1. Get a large mixing bowl and add the mashed potatoes
2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese
3. Crack in the eggs and mix them in
4. Add the breadcrumbs and melted butter
5. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste
7. Mix everything together until well combined and no streaks remain

Important: Make sure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before adding the eggs.

Step 3: Shape the Potato Puffs

1. Put extra breadcrumbs in a shallow dish for coating
2. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture
3. Roll it between your palms to form a ball about the size of a walnut
4. Gently roll each ball in the extra breadcrumbs to coat all sides
5. Place on the prepared baking sheet with space between each puff

Tip: Wet your hands slightly if the mixture sticks to them while rolling.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy
3. Check at 20 minutes – they should be firm to the touch
4. Remove from oven when they’re golden brown all over

Watch carefully in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the puffs cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes
2. Transfer to a serving plate
3. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired
4. Serve warm for the best taste and texture

Serving Suggestions and Tips

How to Serve:

• As appetizers with ranch dressing, sour cream, or ketchup for dipping
• As a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops
• Snack time for kids after school
• Party food – arrange on a platter with toothpicks

Storage and Reheating:

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in a covered container
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness
• Freeze unbaked puffs on a tray, then store in freezer bags up to 3 months
• Bake frozen puffs at 375°F for 25-30 minutes (no thawing needed)

Recipe Variations:

• Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor
• Mix in chopped green onions or chives
• Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyere
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch

Troubleshooting Tips

If Your Mixture is Too Wet:

• Add more breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon at a time
• Make sure your mashed potatoes were well-drained

If Your Mixture is Too Dry:

• Add one more beaten egg
• Mix in a tablespoon of melted butter

If Puffs Fall Apart:

• The mixture may need more egg to bind it together
• Make sure to pack the mixture firmly when shaping

Nutritional Information

Per puff (based on 30 puffs):

• Calories: Approximately 75
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe? A: Yes! Just make sure they’re prepared according to package directions and completely cooled before using.

Q: Do I need to use leftover mashed potatoes? A: No, you can make fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe. Just let them cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can shape the puffs and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover puffs? A: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. This will help restore the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Q: Can I air fry these instead of baking? A: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.

These crispy cheesy mashed potato puffs are guaranteed to become a family favorite! They’re the perfect solution for leftover mashed potatoes and make an impressive appetizer that looks much harder to make than it actually is.