Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: herbs like chives or parsley

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Introduction

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and creative way to transform extra mashed potatoes into golden, crispy bites. These cheesy puffs make a perfect snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.

The image shows four golden brown baked potato bites on a white plate. Each bite has a textured, crispy top layer of melted cheese that is slightly browned and bubbly, with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. The potato base beneath looks soft and creamy, with hints of light yellow and white. The plate is set on a clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: herbs like chives or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs you like. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties about the size of a golf ball. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the cheese puffs for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and have a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm to experience the best cheesy flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or finely chopped green onions to the mixture for more flavor.
If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Serve with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or a spicy aioli to enhance the taste.

Storage

Store any leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows four golden-brown baked potato puffs on a white plate, each puff having a crisp, crunchy top with melted cheese, and sprinkled with small bits of chopped green herbs. The outside looks textured and slightly crispy, while the inside appears soft and creamy. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface, providing a clean and bright background. 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, fresh mashed potatoes work well, but be sure they are cooled and firm enough to hold together. You might need to adjust the flour quantity slightly to get the right consistency.

What types of cheese work best for these puffs?

Cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices for their meltability and taste. You can also experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or a cheese blend to suit your preference.