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As the cool breeze of autumn rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting sensation of sinking your teeth into a cheesy delight. That’s how I felt when I first whipped up these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. With a crispy golden exterior giving way to a gooey, cheesy center, these little bites not only make for a perfect snack but also serve as an ingenious solution for leftover mashed potatoes.

I originally set out to create a quick appetizer for a last-minute gathering, and to my delight, these puffs quickly became the star of the show! Whether you’re gearing up for game night, hosting a cozy dinner, or simply looking to break free from your fast-food rut, these tasty morsels are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With endless variations waiting to be discovered, you’ll find these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs to be a versatile and satisfying addition to your cooking repertoire. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why will you love these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous snacks.

Curries Crowd Appeal: Whether kids or adults, everyone loves these cheesy delights!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or sneaky veggies, making it a great way to clean out the fridge.

Satisfying Flavor: Enjoy the delicious contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy cheese center.

Perfect for Leftovers: Transform those old mashed potatoes into a brand-new dish that leaves no waste on your plate.

Try serving these with different sauces for extra zing or check out our other quick snack ideas for more inspiration!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delicious treat!

For the Puffs

Mashed Potatoes – Use chilled mashed potatoes for best texture and to prevent them from falling apart.
Cheese (e.g., cheddar) – Adds a gooey and creamy filling; feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
Breadcrumbs – Ensures a satisfyingly crispy outer layer; gluten-free options work well for a tasty alternative.
Egg (optional) – Helps bind the ingredients together; for a vegan twist, omit this ingredient.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your taste and preferences.
Vegetables (e.g., spinach, broccoli) – Optional for extra nutrition; finely chop before mixing into the batter.

For Serving

Dipping Sauces (e.g., ketchup, ranch) – Add a delightful touch to your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs; perfect for any snack or appetizer occasion!

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chilled mashed potatoes, your choice of cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated—this forms the delightful base of your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs.
Add Egg (Optional): If you’re using an egg, add it now and mix thoroughly. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring your puffs hold together when they bake—an essential step for that perfect texture!
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give your puffs a lovely golden-brown crispiness, sealing in that gooey cheese goodness.
Shape Puffs: Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into small balls, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter. Place each puff onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re spaced out for even cooking.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the puffs for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a lovely crunch on the outside and a soft, cheesy interior.
Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve them warm! Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or ranch, for that extra tasty touch.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful puffs to suit your taste buds!

Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped spinach or broccoli for a nutritious twist. These puffs become colorful and packed with vitamins!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to bring some heat. Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy bite!
Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a bright flavor enhancement. These little additions can really elevate your puffs!
Bacon Bliss: Mix in crumbled bacon or pancetta for a savory crunch. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the cheese and potato!
Cheese Mixer: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for spice or gouda for a rich flavor. You may discover a new favorite!
Nutty Texture: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. They introduce an unexpected twist to each bite!
Sweet Surprise: Try a dash of sweet potato or butternut squash in the mix for a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a fun flavor adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fantastic choice for meal prepping, saving you time on those busy weeknights! You can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the shaped puffs on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container; they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the fridge or freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have deliciously crispy and cheesy snacks at your fingertips, ready to impress anytime!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Creating a delightful meal around these golden, cheesy treats is a breeze, offering endless delicious possibilities.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the puffs. The crunch of the veggies pairs beautifully with the soft, cheesy bites.
Savory Meatballs: Tender meatballs in marinara sauce offer a heartier option that complements the puffs while adding a savory kick. Together, they create a satisfying spread perfect for sharing.
Creamy Garlic Dip: A smooth garlic dip enhances the puffs’ cheesy goodness while providing a delightful contrast in texture. It’s an absolute must-try for flavor lovers!
Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables add nutritional value and a variety of textures and tastes. A medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers pairs well with the puffs, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Serve with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a surprising burst of flavor that balances the puffs’ creaminess. This combination is sure to excite your taste buds!
Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade with a hint of mint is a perfect beverage to cleanse your palate between mouthfuls. The citrus zest complements the richness of the cheesy puffs remarkably well.

These pairing suggestions not only elevate your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs but create a well-rounded feast that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Room Temperature: Enjoy the puffs fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture; they can stay out for about 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed to keep the puffs from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze shaped but uncooked puffs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Chill Your Potatoes: Use chilled mashed potatoes to achieve the best texture and prevent your puffs from falling apart during baking.
Customize Wisely: Mix in spices like garlic powder or paprika to enhance the flavor of your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs without overpowering the cheese.
Don’t Skimp on Size: Keep the potato puffs uniform in size, around 1-2 inches, to ensure even baking and perfect crispiness.
Freezing Tips: Shape the puffs, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to an airtight container for quick snacks later—bake from frozen for ideal results.
Check for Crispiness: Bake until golden brown to achieve that satisfying crunch on the outside, which perfectly complements the creamy filling inside.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe FAQs

What kind of mashed potatoes should I use?
Absolutely use chilled mashed potatoes for the best results! This temperature helps maintain their structure during baking, preventing your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs from falling apart. If you’re using fresh mashed potatoes, allow them to cool in the fridge for at least an hour before you start mixing.

How should I store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
To store your tasty puffs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven until they regain their crispy texture—usually around 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) will do the trick!

Can I freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, you can! After shaping the puffs, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them into the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and crispy!

What should I do if my puffs aren’t holding together?
Very often, this can happen if the mashed potatoes weren’t chilled overnight. If you encounter this issue, adding an extra egg can help bind the mixture better, or you can mix in a little more breadcrumbs. Just be careful not to add too much, or the flavor may be affected!

Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs suitable for dietary restrictions?
Of course! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. To make them dairy-free or vegan, simply omit the cheese and the egg—there are plenty of great vegan cheese alternatives available. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just remember to keep an eye on these adjustments, as they might affect the taste and texture.

Can I add veggies to the puffs?
Absolutely! Sneaking in some finely chopped vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value of your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. Just make sure to chop them small so they incorporate well into the mixture. Aim to keep the total volume of ingredients balanced for the best results!