Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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If you’re wondering what to do with leftover mashed potatoes or simply craving a savory bite that melts in your mouth, these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a must-try. They’re crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and filled with gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite. Perfect for a cozy snack or a fun appetizer at your next gathering.

The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment. This is the kind of recipe that welcomes leftovers with open arms and turns them into something crave-worthy. Whether you’re hosting friends or need a quick side for dinner, these puffs come together quickly and disappear even faster.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

They take humble mashed potatoes and transform them into something elevated and delicious. With crispy edges and melty cheese at the center, they’re kid-friendly, adult-approved, and completely addictive. You can bake or fry them depending on your mood and still get that perfect crunch. Best of all, they’re versatile: add herbs, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of spice to tailor them to your taste.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Russet potatoes work best if you’re making mashed potatoes from scratch, thanks to their starchy texture. But honestly, any leftover mashed potatoes will do. If your mash is a little creamy or buttery, even better. Just make sure it’s cold and firm enough to shape, and you’ll be golden—literally and figuratively!

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

To create these irresistible puffs, you don’t need a long grocery list—just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role in delivering that crisp-tender texture and deep cheesy flavor.

• Mashed Potatoes: The star of the show, preferably cold leftovers that hold their shape well.
• Eggs: Help bind the mixture together so the puffs don’t fall apart.
• Shredded Cheese: Adds gooey, melty richness; cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or pepper jack work beautifully too.
• Flour: Gives structure and helps the puffs crisp up nicely.
• Green Onions: Brings a mild sharpness and a pop of color to every bite.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Breadcrumbs: For rolling the puffs before baking or frying to get that crave-worthy golden crunch.

How To Make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prepare Your Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheese, flour, chopped green onions, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and holds together when scooped.

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Then gently roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

You can either bake the puffs at 400°F for 18-20 minutes until golden brown, or fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden on the outside. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve Warm

These are best enjoyed hot from the oven or fryer, while the cheese is still delightfully melty inside. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them on their own!

Serving and Storing Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are best served hot, right after they come out of the oven or fryer. That’s when the edges are at their crispiest and the cheese is beautifully gooey inside. This recipe yields about 16 to 18 puffs, enough to feed 4 to 6 people as a snack or appetizer.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back their crispiness—the microwave won’t do them justice.

What to Serve With Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Creamy Dipping Sauces

Think garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or sour cream with chives to add a tangy contrast to the crispy puffs.

Fresh Green Salad

Balance the richness of the puffs with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

Tomato Soup

These puffs make an excellent dunkable sidekick to a warm, hearty tomato soup.

BBQ Chicken Wings

If you’re serving a crowd, pair the puffs with smoky BBQ wings for a savory duo.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

Their tanginess cuts through the cheese and adds a welcome crunch.

Scrambled Eggs

Turn it into a brunch spread by serving the puffs alongside fluffy scrambled eggs.

Grilled Sausages

Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, grilled sausages bring a meaty complement.

Beer or Sparkling Water

For drinks, go for something bubbly to contrast the richness of the cheese puffs.

Want More Potato Snack Ideas?

If these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs made you crave more golden-brown potato goodness, we’ve got some crave-worthy options for you:

• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake for a slow-cooked comfort meal.
• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts if you love crispy outsides with pillowy insides.
• Old-Fashioned Corn Fritters for another deep-fried classic.
• Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes when you want easy flavor-packed spuds.
• Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds for a veggie-forward crispy bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use cheddar or go with something spicy like pepper jack? Maybe added some crispy bacon? I’d love to hear how you made them your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting snacks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort snack: crunchy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making them from scratch or using up leftovers, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Give them a try and prepare for a new family favorite.

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