Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful, crispy snack that combines creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheddar cheese and savory seasonings. Perfectly golden and easy to make, they make a tasty appetizer or side dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives (to taste)
- Flour (as needed)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (for coating)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until well blended.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Step 3: Roll each ball in Parmesan cheese to coat them evenly.
- Step 4: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Step 6: Serve warm, either plain or with your favorite dipping sauce such as ketchup, ranch, or spicy sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-chilled to help the puffs hold their shape better.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a new flavor twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits or fresh herbs to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Include finely chopped vegetables like spinach or broccoli to sneak in some greens.
- Adjust spices to suit your taste preferences, such as adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
Storage
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of chilled ones?
It’s best to use chilled mashed potatoes to help the puffs maintain their shape and prevent them from falling apart during baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the puffs before baking. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
What can I serve with these puffs?
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are delicious on their own or served with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy sauce for added flavor.
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 puffs 1x
Description
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy, golden-baked bites packed with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory spices. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these puffs combine the comfort of mashed potatoes with a delightful cheese crust and a hint of fresh chives, delivering a deliciously addictive treat that’s easy to make and share.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives (to taste)
- Flour (as needed)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
For Coating
- Parmesan cheese (for coating)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chilled mashed potatoes, the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth enough to hold together.
- Shape the Puffs: Take portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls, ensuring each is compact to maintain shape during baking.
- Coat with Parmesan: Roll each ball in Parmesan cheese, ensuring they are evenly coated to create a flavorful and crispy crust once baked.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated potato puffs on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for heat circulation.
- Bake the Puffs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the puffs turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
Notes
- Use well-chilled mashed potatoes to help the puffs hold their shape during cooking.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- To add more flavor, incorporate cooked bacon bits or a variety of herbs into the mixture before shaping.
- Vegetables such as finely chopped spinach or broccoli can be mixed in for added nutrition and color.
- Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
- You can freeze the puffs before baking; thaw them in the fridge before baking for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mashed potato puffs, cheesy potato bites, baked potato balls, appetizer, snack recipe, cheddar cheese puffs, vegetarian appetizer

