Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into irresistible snacks. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a cheesy, soft center, these puffs are perfect for appetizers or a tasty side dish.

Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 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 bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Step 4: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated for a crispy finish.
- Step 5: Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced slightly apart.
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness.
Tips & Variations
- Use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the puffs with oil before baking.
- Mix in chopped herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Substitute breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter crunch.
Storage
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze these cheese puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the prepared, breaded puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, but be sure to cool and mash freshly cooked potatoes thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to help the puffs hold their shape.
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Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20 puffs 1x
Description
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make snack using leftover mashed potatoes combined with melted cheddar cheese and a crispy breadcrumb coating. Baked to golden perfection, these puffs are perfect as appetizers or comfort food treats that are cheesy, soft inside, and crunchy outside.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the cheese puffs.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the puffs: Shape the potato mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, forming bite-size puffs.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in the cup of breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to coat them evenly and completely for a crispy crust.
- Prepare baking sheet: Place the coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Bake: Bake the puffs in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm: Remove from oven and serve the puffs warm, ideal as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Leftover mashed potatoes work best, as fresh potatoes may be too soft.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
- For extra crispiness, you can double coat the puffs by dipping in egg and rolling in breadcrumbs again.
- These puffs can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness instead of microwaving.
- Adding chopped herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mashed potato puffs, cheesy potato balls, baked potato snacks, crispy potato bites, leftover mashed potatoes recipe

