Best Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 73% of Leftover Mashed Potatoes Go to Waste? Here’s How to Fix That

It’s a truth universally acknowledged: no matter how carefully we portion our holiday meals, there’s always a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes languishing in the fridge. But what if I told you those creamy spuds could transform into golden, cheesy mashed potato puffs—crispy on the outside, cloud-soft within—that’ll make your family beg for seconds? These bite-sized wonders aren’t just a clever way to reduce food waste; they’re the ultimate comfort food upgrade.

I first discovered the magic of repurposing mashed potatoes during a chaotic post-Thanksgiving brunch. My niece, ever the picky eater, turned up her nose at reheated sides—until I folded in sharp cheddar, shaped the mixture into little domes, and baked them until they puffed up like edible pillows. The way her eyes lit up with that first bite? Pure kitchen triumph.

Why These Potato Puffs Belong in Your Recipe Rotation

Unlike fussy appetizers that demand precision, cheesy mashed potato puffs forgive all sins. Did your mash turn out a tad gluey? The cheese will save it. Forgot to add butter last night? A generous pinch of garlic powder bridges the gap. They’re the culinary equivalent of a cozy sweater—unpretentious, adaptable, and guaranteed to comfort.

• Time-Saving Secret: Uses pre-cooked potatoes (holiday leftovers or store-bought)
• Crowd-Pleasing Power: Equally at home on brunch buffets or game day spreads
• Freezer-Friendly: Shape and freeze unbaked puffs for instant cravings later

As we whisk together the simple ingredients—flour for structure, eggs for lift, and that glorious cheese pull—you’ll realize these puffs aren’t just a recipe. They’re a love letter to resourceful home cooks who believe every ingredient deserves a delicious second act.

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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: The Ultimate Comfort Bite

There’s something magical about mashed potatoes—creamy, buttery, and utterly comforting. But what if we took that cozy classic and transformed it into golden, cheesy little puffs? These bite-sized delights are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with melty cheese. Perfect for holiday leftovers, brunch, or just because you deserve a little indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups mashed potatoes – Leftovers work beautifully here, but if you’re making them fresh, go for a rich, buttery mash.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful tang, but feel free to mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack for extra depth.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan – A little nuttiness to balance the creaminess.
• 1 large egg – This binds everything together and gives the puffs a lovely lift.
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions – A pop of freshness to cut through the richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Because everything is better with garlic.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Just a whisper of smokiness to elevate the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skip this—season as you go!
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – For that irresistible crunch.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – Brushed on top for extra golden goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Mix the Goodness: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, egg, chives, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick but pliable—if it feels too loose, add a tablespoon of flour to help it hold shape.

3. Shape the Puffs: Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the mixture into small mounds (about 1-2 tablespoons each). Roll them gently between your palms to form smooth balls, then lightly flatten them into little patties. This helps them crisp up evenly.

4. Crunchy Coating: Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Press each puff lightly into the crumbs, coating both sides. The panko adds that perfect golden crunch without being heavy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re using up leftover mashed potatoes or making a fresh batch, this recipe is simple, versatile, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack, these puffs bring warmth and joy to any meal.

Ready to give them a try? Whip up a batch and let us know how they turn out! Don’t forget to tag us on social media or leave a comment below. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other cozy potato dishes like Crispy Potato Wedges or Loaded Potato Soup for more comfort food inspiration!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar is our go-to for its sharp flavor and meltability, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.

Can I freeze the puffs?

Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crispy and warmed through.

My mashed potatoes are runny—will they still work?

If your mashed potatoes are too wet, the puffs might not hold their shape. Try adding a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to thicken the mixture before baking.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.