Turn leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy delights with these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re golden on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside. 
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Crispy & Cheesy – A perfect mix of crunchy edges and creamy centers.
✔️ Great for Leftovers – Transform extra mashed potatoes into something amazing.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover Mashed Potatoes | 2 cups | Base for the puffs |
| Eggs | 3 large, beaten | Helps hold everything together |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Adds creaminess and flavor |
| Chives | ¼ cup, chopped | Freshness and mild onion taste |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Extra depth of flavor |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Balances the flavors |
| Parmesan Cheese | ¼ cup, grated | Creates a crispy topping |
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or use silicone liners.
2. Mix Ingredients
- In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for an extra crispy finish.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the tin.
Tips for the Best Potato Puffs
✅ Use room-temperature mashed potatoes – Cold potatoes don’t mix as well.
✅ Mix gently – Over-mixing can make the puffs dense.
✅ Broil for extra crispiness – Add 1-2 minutes under the broiler at the end.
Serving Ideas
These potato puffs pair well with:
🥩 Grilled Steak or Chicken – A hearty protein balance.
🥗 Salads – Fresh greens complement the cheesy richness.
🥣 Dips – Try ranch, sour cream, or marinara sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Place in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes until crispy.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack work well.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use a little extra Parmesan on top and broil for a couple of minutes.
Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Bacon bits, green onions, or even diced jalapeños are great additions.
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are fun to make, delicious to eat, and the perfect way to reinvent mashed potatoes. Enjoy.