Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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The first time I made these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, I wasn’t even trying to create something fancy. I had a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge, and rather than reheating them for the third meal in a row, I decided to get creative. What came out of the oven was a tray full of golden, crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside bites that disappeared in minutes.

I love giving leftovers a second life, and this recipe does that beautifully. The addition of sharp cheddar and a hint of chives turns humble mashed potatoes into something that feels gourmet. And because they’re baked in muffin tins, they come out in perfectly portioned puffs, ideal for any meal or party platter.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, need a kid-friendly snack, or just want a cozy side dish, these puffs deliver. They pack incredible texture and taste into every bite, and I find myself making extra mashed potatoes just to have a reason to bake a batch the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

These cheese puffs are the ultimate leftover transformation. They’re quick to prepare, and the ingredients are simple, ones you probably already have on hand. What makes them irresistible is the contrast between the crispy, golden tops and the soft, cheesy centers. You can dress them up with herbs, or keep them plain for picky eaters. Best of all, they freeze well and reheat like a dream, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. If you love making the most of every ingredient and hate wasting food, this one’s for you.

Ingredients

Mashed Potatoes: The heart of the recipe. Leftover mashed potatoes give this dish its creamy base and rich flavor. Make sure they’re seasoned well for best results.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds gooey, melty richness and that sharp cheesy punch that pairs perfectly with potatoes.

Eggs: Helps bind the mixture together so the puffs hold their shape when baked.

Chives or Green Onions: These bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness and adds brightness.

Breadcrumbs: Optional but recommended for extra structure and to help the outside crisp up beautifully.

Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with silicone muffin cups to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, beaten eggs, chopped chives or green onions, a handful of breadcrumbs if using, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top and gently pressing down to compact the filling. You can add a small sprinkle of cheese or breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crisp. Let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before gently removing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. They’re just as good on their own or with a dip like sour cream or a spicy aioli.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This recipe is forgiving and flexible, perfect for adapting based on what you have available. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a more melty, stringy texture or pepper jack if you want a spicy kick. You can also mix in crumbled cooked bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or steamed broccoli for extra protein or veggies.

If you don’t have chives or green onions, finely diced white or red onion will do the trick. For a lower-carb version, swap the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. And if you’re dairy-free, substitute with plant-based cheese and a flax egg.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving these puffs warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. They’re excellent as a side for a hearty soup like tomato bisque or creamy chicken stew. For breakfast, serve them with scrambled eggs or smoked salmon.

If you’re entertaining, they make the perfect bite-sized party appetizer and are delicious alongside dips like sriracha mayo or garlic aioli.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store, let the puffs cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. If frozen, add a few extra minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

How do I keep Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs from sticking to the muffin tin?

Grease your muffin tin well with butter or non-stick spray, or use silicone muffin cups to make removal easier.

Can I make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Yes, as long as they are thick and seasoned. Avoid overly runny mashed potatoes for best results.

What cheese works best in Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but any meltable cheese like gouda, gruyere, or mozzarella will work.

Are Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs gluten-free?

They can be! Just skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free version.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, don’t miss the Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for another comforting potato delight, or the Cottage Cheese Egg Bites Recipe which also makes clever use of muffin tins and pantry staples. For a veggie-packed twist, try the Roasted Zucchini and Squash Recipe as a wholesome side to complement your puffs.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If these cheesy, crispy bites made you smile, be sure to save this recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it again when you have leftover mashed potatoes on hand. Sharing is caring—send it to a friend, post it on Facebook, or even bookmark it in your browser. These puffs deserve to be shared and enjoyed far and wide!

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