Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about mashed potatoes, but sometimes, you want to take that creamy, buttery goodness to the next level. Enter Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs—a crispy, golden-brown delight with a gooey cheese center. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a fun appetizer, these little bites are impossible to resist.

I first made these when trying to use up leftover mashed potatoes after a big family dinner. Rather than reheating them in their usual form, I experimented with eggs, cheese, and a muffin tin—and the result was pure magic. Now, they're a staple in my kitchen, whether I have leftovers or not!

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with a fun new way to enjoy mashed potatoes. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you're already halfway there. Just mix, scoop, and bake—no frying required!

They’re also a great way to use up leftovers. Instead of plain reheated mashed potatoes, you get a crispy, cheesy, flavorful treat that feels brand new.

Budget-conscious? These puffs are affordable and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Eggs, cheese, and a few seasonings transform humble mashed potatoes into something spectacular.

And let's not forget their versatility. Serve them as a side with dinner, as a snack with dipping sauces, or even as a party appetizer. No matter when you make them, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs lies in a few simple, yet essential, ingredients. Here’s what makes them so special:

Mashed potatoes form the base of this recipe. Whether you’re using fresh or leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re well-seasoned. If they’re on the plain side, feel free to add a little extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder.

Eggs are the key to holding everything together. They help the puffs keep their shape while baking and add a slight fluffiness to the texture.

Cheese is where the magic happens! I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick. If you want an extra gooey center, tuck a small cube of cheese into each puff before baking.

Parmesan adds a slightly nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste. A sprinkle on top before baking creates a beautifully golden crust.

Green onions bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese and potatoes. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them out for chives or parsley.

No special equipment is needed—just a muffin tin to shape the puffs perfectly and give them their crispy edges.

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Creating these delicious puffs is easier than you think. Let’s go step by step:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking—you don’t want to miss out on those crispy edges!

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheese, and green onions. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and scoopable.

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups. If you want extra cheesy goodness, press a small cube of cheese into the center of each puff and cover it with more potato mixture.

Sprinkle the tops with a little Parmesan cheese for a golden, flavorful crust. Then, place the tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Once baked, let them cool for a couple of minutes before gently removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Options

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Want to keep them longer? They freeze well, too! Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

To reheat from frozen, pop them in a 375°F oven for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Variations and Substitutions

The best part about these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is how customizable they are. Here are a few ways to change them up:

If you love a little spice, try adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. It adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the cheesy goodness.

For extra protein, mix in crumbled bacon or cooked sausage. This makes them even more satisfying, especially as a breakfast or brunch dish.

Want to make them gluten-free? You’re already in luck—this recipe doesn’t require any flour or breadcrumbs, so it’s naturally gluten-free as is!

Experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Smoked gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can add a fun twist to the classic cheddar.

For an herby boost, try adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of garlic powder. It’s an easy way to add depth to the flavor.

No matter how you customize them, one thing’s for sure—these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are going to be a new favorite in your kitchen!

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