Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491242H51M18S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions; 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

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Introduction

Transform your cold leftover mashed potatoes into irresistible cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. These savory bites make a perfect snack or appetizer with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

The image shows a close-up of golden-brown crispy cheese balls piled on a white plate. Each cheese ball has a crunchy outer layer with melted, soft cheese visible inside. One cheese ball is being held by a woman's hand with a silver fork piercing it, showing gooey cheese stretch. The cheese balls are sprinkled with small green herb bits for color contrast. The background is a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Mix the ingredients until just combined without overworking the mixture to keep the puffs light.
Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full for even baking and puffiness.
Step 6: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Allow the cheese puffs to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before gently removing to retain their shape.
Step 8: Serve warm for the best taste and texture—enjoy your delicious cheese puffs!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.
Try swapping out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese twist.
If you want a gluten-free option, these puffs work perfectly as written since they use no flour.
Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty variation.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows several round golden brown cheese balls with a crispy outside and soft, creamy inside. One cheese ball is held by a silver fork lifted above the others, showing its gooey, melted cheese texture with small green herb pieces on top. The cheese balls have a slightly rough, uneven surface with browned bits all over, resting on a white plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftover?

Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes, but let them cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to maintain the right texture.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely! Freeze baked cheese puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C).