Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491257H26M49S
Total time: PT-491257H26M49S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions; 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

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Introduction

Turn your leftover mashed potatoes into delicious, cheesy puffs that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. These crispy, golden bites combine creamy potatoes with sharp cheddar and fresh herbs for a crowd-pleasing treat.

The image shows several small, round, golden-brown cheese balls placed closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cheese ball has a crispy outer layer with a slightly uneven texture, showing hints of melted cheese. One cheese ball is held by a woman's hand with a silver fork piercing into it, revealing a soft, gooey, and creamy light yellow interior with visible melted cheese strands. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled on top of the cheese balls, adding a fresh color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, beaten egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Mix until just combined without overworking the mixture.
Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Step 6: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top.
Step 7: Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan before gently removing the puffs.
Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before baking.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños to the mixture for added flavor and texture.
If you don’t have chives, green onions or fresh parsley make great substitutes.
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the mixture evenly for uniform puffs.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of golden brown cheesy potato balls with a crispy outer layer and a soft, creamy inside. Each ball has bits of melted cheese visible on the surface, giving it a textured and appetizing look. One ball is being held by a woman's hand with a silver fork poking into the top of it, showing gooey melted cheese stretching out. The balls rest on a white plate with a few small green herb sprinkles on top. The background is a white marbled surface. 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?

Yes, you can make these puffs with freshly made mashed potatoes. Just ensure they are cool before mixing with the other ingredients to maintain the right texture.

Can I freeze the cheese puffs?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.