Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. These bite-sized puffs are golden and crispy on the outside, with a creamy, cheesy center. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a fun and tasty twist on traditional mashed potatoes. The cheddar cheese adds a rich, melty interior, while the breadcrumbs give the puffs a crispy, golden exterior. The garlic powder and seasoning elevate the flavors, making them irresistible. Whether you have leftover mashed potatoes or are looking for a new way to enjoy them, this recipe is a great option that’s simple to prepare and absolutely delicious!
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
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Shape the puffs: Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized puffs.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until they are fully coated.
- Bake the puffs: Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and serve: Let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Cheese variety: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan, for different flavors.
- Herb addition: Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, into the mixture for a fresh and aromatic twist.
- Spicy version: Mix in some chili flakes or hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian option: For a veggie-packed version, add some finely chopped spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables into the mixture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs ahead of time, shape them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just follow the recipe instructions.
2. Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftover ones?
Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes as long as they have cooled slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
3. Can I make these puffs gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs, to make these puffs gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze these puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped puffs before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
5. How do I know when the puffs are done?
The puffs are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer. Try mozzarella, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.
7. Can I make these puffs smaller or larger?
Yes, you can adjust the size of the puffs to your preference. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size you make them.
8. Can I add meat to the mixture?
Yes, you can add cooked, shredded chicken or bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
9. What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with these?
These puffs pair perfectly with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
10. Can I bake them in a muffin tin instead of rolling them into balls?
Yes, you can scoop the mixture into a greased muffin tin for a more uniform shape, and bake them for the same amount of time.
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into a tasty, cheesy snack or side dish. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy interior, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious, these puffs are a great addition to any meal or party spread!
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Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. With a crispy, golden exterior and a creamy, cheesy center, these bite-sized puffs make the perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
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
-
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until fully combined.
-
Shape the puffs: Use your hands or a scoop to form the mixture into golf ball-sized puffs.
-
Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
-
Bake the puffs: Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Cool and serve: Let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for variety.
For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the mashed potato mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
