Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about mashed potatoes, but have you ever taken them to the next level? Enter Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs—crispy on the outside, irresistibly creamy on the inside, and packed with gooey cheese. These bite-sized delights make the perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a fun snack for kids and adults alike.

I first made these when I had leftover mashed potatoes and needed a creative way to repurpose them. One bite in, and my family was hooked. Now, they're a staple at our dinner table, especially during the holidays or game nights.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes! These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are everything you crave in a comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.

First, they're incredibly easy to make. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you're already halfway there! Just mix in a few simple ingredients, bake, and enjoy.

They're also budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like eggs, cheese, and flour, you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank.

Love variety? These puffs are versatile. Change up the cheese, add crispy bacon, or toss in some fresh herbs to create a unique twist every time.

And let's not forget—they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun side dish, or just need a quick snack, these potato puffs fit the bill.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs comes from their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you need to make them truly irresistible.

Start with mashed potatoes—the foundation of this recipe. Whether you're using leftovers or making a fresh batch, make sure they’re well-seasoned and not too dry. If your mashed potatoes are on the firmer side, adding a splash of milk can help loosen them up.

Next, you'll need cheese, and lots of it! Sharp cheddar is a great choice because of its bold flavor, but mozzarella, parmesan, or even pepper jack can bring a fun twist.

To help hold everything together, you'll use eggs. They act as a binder, ensuring your puffs stay intact while baking. Be sure to whisk them before adding them to the mixture.

A bit of flour gives these puffs structure, helping them crisp up beautifully in the oven. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with a blend like almond or rice flour.

For an added flavor boost, consider tossing in chopped green onions, garlic powder, or even crispy bacon bits. And don’t forget the final touch—a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste!

How To Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Creating these delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a mini muffin tin. This helps prevent sticking and gives your puffs their perfect shape.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, and flour. Stir until everything is well incorporated. If the mixture feels too thick, a splash of milk can help loosen it up.

Next, scoop the mixture into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Use the back of a spoon to smooth out the tops for even baking.

Pop the tin into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—each oven varies slightly in temperature.

Once done, let the puffs cool for a couple of minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm with a side of sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage Options

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs store beautifully!

To store in the fridge, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for about 15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is how adaptable they are. Here are a few ways to make them your own:

Want a protein boost? Add chopped ham or crispy bacon bits to the mix for extra flavor and texture.

Switch up the cheese! While cheddar is classic, try gruyere, pepper jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Looking for a healthier alternative? Swap out regular mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with smoked gouda or parmesan.

Make them gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.

Spice things up! A dash of paprika, cayenne, or even chopped jalapeños can give your puffs a delicious kick.

No matter how you customize them, these puffs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with your favorite flavors and enjoy!

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