Name: Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs That Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes (cold mashed potatoes make shaping easier); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (can substitute with pepper jack for a spicy twist); 2 large Eggs (essential for binding the ingredients); ½ cup All-Purpose Flour (provides necessary texture); 1 teaspoon Salt (a crucial seasoning); ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (adds mild heat; adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or use onion powder for variety); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (opt for panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)

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As I rummaged through my fridge one evening, I stumbled upon a bowl of uneaten mashed potatoes, remnants of a comforting family dinner. Just then, a lightbulb went off—what if I could transform them into something new? Enter the Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! Not only are these little delights a brilliant way to use up leftovers, but they also come together faster than you can say “appetizer.” With their crunchy exterior and gooey cheese center, these vegetarian bites are perfect for snacking or impressing guests at your next gathering. Plus, they’re versatile enough to accommodate whatever you have on hand. Curious about how to make your own? Let’s dive in!

Why are Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs a Must?

Leftover Magic: Transform your uneaten mashed potatoes into a delightful snack! These puffs make fantastic use of what might go to waste.
Quick and Easy: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip them up in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and crispy coating is sure to impress at parties. Serve alongside sour cream or one of your favorite dipping sauces for extra flair.
Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add in fresh herbs, crispy bacon bits, or your preferred melting cheese to make them uniquely yours. For more delicious ideas, check out our Sausage Egg Cheese Roll-Ups or Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.
Healthy Indulgence: Not only tasty, but these puffs are also vegetarian-friendly! Enjoy a guilt-free snack that’s rich in flavor without compromising on health.

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Ingredients

• Whipping up these delicious Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is easier than you think!

For the Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potatoes – The star of the dish; cold mashed potatoes make shaping easier.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess and a burst of flavor; you can substitute it with pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together to ensure well-formed puffs.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary texture and consistency for the puffs; don’t skip this!
Salt – A crucial seasoning that enhances the overall flavor of your puffs.
Black Pepper – Adds a hint of mild heat; adjust according to your taste preference.
Garlic Powder – Infuses a savory note; onion powder is a good alternative if you’re looking for variety.
Breadcrumbs – Ensures a wonderfully crispy coating; opt for panko breadcrumbs if you crave extra crunch.

This list guarantees that each bite delivers the perfect combination of crunch and gooeyness, making these puffs a delightful addition to any meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring a hassle-free clean-up afterwards.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add your cold leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Using a spoon or spatula, gently mix these ingredients together just until they’re combined—overmixing could lead to dense puffs, so be careful!

Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Once mixed, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, and scoop out portions of the mixture, shaping them into balls about the size of ping pong balls. Make sure the balls are compact but maintain a light touch to keep them airy. Place them on a clean surface as you form the remaining puffs.

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Next, roll each formed ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated. This step is crucial for the crispy outer layer of your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. For an extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which offer a delightful texture.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Carefully place the coated cheese puffs onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each one to allow for even cooking. This spacing helps to ensure they crisp up nicely without sticking together in the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Now, pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on the puffs as they bake; you’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and become fragrant, sending delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and can be paired with sour cream, tomato soup, or your favorite dipping sauce for an added flavor kick.

Storage Tips for Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, leave them out at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious for snacking!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. It makes meal prep a breeze!
Reheating: To enjoy the puffs again, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Feel free to get creative with these Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs—your taste buds will thank you!

Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh chives or parsley for a burst of flavor. The addition of herbs enhances the aroma and taste beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese. This twist brings a delightful heat, making each bite exciting.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon bits to the mixture for a smoky flavor. Their savory crunch elevates these puffs to a new level of deliciousness.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different melting cheeses such as gouda or mozzarella. Each type will lend a unique richness to your puffs.
Onion Substitute: Replace garlic powder with onion powder if you’re in the mood for a sweeter, milder flavor. This small change can make a big difference in taste.
Extra Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs for coating instead of traditional ones. They provide an unbeatable crunch that makes these puffs truly irresistible.
Herbed Cream Cheese: Add a dollop of herbed cream cheese in the center for a surprise gooey element. It’s a delightful twist that will keep everyone guessing.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour to keep these puffs accessible for everyone. Enjoy without compromising on taste!

For more delicious ways to use up those leftovers, check out our Mexican Potatoes Spicy or try transforming your breakfast with a Chaffle Egg Cheese!

Expert Tips for Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Use Cold Potatoes: Always start with cold mashed potatoes to keep the puffs from losing shape during baking.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined; overmixing can result in dense, heavy puffs instead of light and fluffy ones.
Chill Before Baking: If time permits, chill the shaped puffs for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better.
Breadcrumb Choices: Opt for panko breadcrumbs if you crave extra crunch; they deliver a delightful texture in your crispy mashed potato cheese puffs.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different cheeses or seasonings to personalize your puffs; think of fresh herbs or a dash of smoked paprika for a unique twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shape the puffs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they retain their form. For optimal quality, chill them for about 10 minutes before baking to help maintain that delightful texture. If you’re short on time, you can also freeze the shaped puffs for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes, achieving that crispy perfection with minimal effort! With this prep, you’ll have a delicious, stress-free appetizer ready to go whenever you need it.

What to Serve with Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Imagine your kitchen filled with enticing aromas as you enjoy a golden platter of crispy delights.

Sour Cream Dip: Creamy and tangy, sour cream adds a refreshing contrast to the cheesy puffs, making each bite burst with flavor.
Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of savory tomato soup offers comfort and pairs beautifully with the texture of the puffs, creating a delightful meal.
Fresh Salad: Crunchy mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a fresh and light balance to the richness of the crispy cheese puffs.
Garlic Aioli: A smooth garlic aioli enhances the savory flavors of the puffs, offering a gourmet twist that’s perfect for impressing guests.
Spicy Salsa: For a kick, serve with a bowl of fresh salsa; the vibrant flavors dance on your palate, complementing the puffs perfectly.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs makes for a wholesome side that adds a nutritious touch to your meal, pairing delightfully with the richness of the puffs.
Beer or Cider: A light beer or apple cider offers a crisp and refreshing complement, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light chocolate mousse that rounds out the meal with a smooth and sweet finish.

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe FAQs

What type of mashed potatoes should I use?
Absolutely! To achieve the best results, always use cold leftover mashed potatoes. They are less sticky and easier to shape into puffs. If you have freshly made mashed potatoes, let them cool completely before using them in the recipe.

How should I store leftover Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
Once the puffs have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking. Just make sure not to leave them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Can I freeze Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
Yes, freezing is a fantastic option! To do this, place the uncooked cheese puffs in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy them anytime you want! For cooking, bake them directly from the freezer—there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I do if my puffs are falling apart?
If you find your puffs are crumbling, it usually means the mixture isn’t holding together well. Make sure to use enough egg to bind the ingredients, and consider adding a bit more flour to help with the structure. Another tip is to chill the shaped puffs for about 10 minutes before baking; this helps them maintain their shape during cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations for these puffs?
Absolutely! These crispy mashed potato cheese puffs are vegetarian-friendly. However, if you have allergies, be cautious with the cheese and flour used in the recipe. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that cheese is not recommended for dogs in large quantities, so be mindful of their safety when serving. Enjoy and make sure to check ingredient labels for any specific allergens.