Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a tasty snack or appetizer. These golden, cheesy bites are easy to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering.

Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
- Step 4: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated, ensuring an even layer.
- Step 5: Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart.
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Step 7: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like chives or parsley to the potato mixture.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Try mixing in cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- If the mixture feels too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before forming balls.
Storage
Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work well. Just make sure they are cool and thick in consistency to hold the shape when forming the puffs.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be baked, which makes it a healthier option while still achieving a crispy exterior.
Print
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 puffs 1x
Description
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful snack made from leftover mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar cheese and seasonings, then coated in breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. These puffs offer a crunchy outer layer with a soft, cheesy interior, making them perfect as appetizers or party snacks.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the puffs evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Shape Mixture: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls suitable for snacks or appetizers.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each formed ball in the breadcrumbs until they are completely coated. This will create a crispy crust when baked.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breadcrumb-coated balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve the crispy mashed potato cheese puffs warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using leftover mashed potatoes is ideal but fresh mashed potatoes can also be used once cooled.
- For extra crispiness, you can double coat the puffs by dipping in egg wash and rolling again in breadcrumbs.
- Customize by adding herbs such as chives, parsley, or paprika to the mixture for different flavors.
- These puffs can be frozen after shaping but before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
- Serve with sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, Potato Snacks, Cheesy Potato Bites, Appetizers, Party Snacks, Baked Potato Puffs

