Description
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food snack—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. These little bites are made from creamy mashed potatoes mixed with gooey cheese and baked (or air-fried) until golden. They’re perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, and they double as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, lunchbox treat, or cozy side dish.
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Ingredients
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold or day-old)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, gouda, or your favorite meltable cheese)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or use breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• ¼ cup green onions or chives, finely chopped
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup grated parmesan (optional for topping)
• Non-stick cooking spray or a little oil for baking
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, flour (or breadcrumbs), green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a thick, scoopable mixture.
Step 3: Portion the Mixture
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form small balls or mounds of the potato mixture.
Place them into the muffin cups or onto the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
If using a muffin tin, fill each about ¾ full.
Step 4: Add Optional Toppings
Sprinkle each puff with a pinch of grated parmesan if desired for extra crisp and flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
If you prefer them extra crispy, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the cheese puffs cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy on their own.
Notes
Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – They hold together better and make shaping easier.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the texture light.
Switch Up the Cheese – Try a blend of cheeses for more flavor depth.
Add Mix-Ins – Cooked veggies, turkey bacon, or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.
Grease Well – This prevents sticking and helps form a golden crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American