Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Introduction
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a comforting and creative way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden appetizer or side dish. With a crunchy cheese-coated exterior and a soft, fluffy center, they are simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Mashed potatoes – 3 cups cold, leftover mashed potatoes (stiff potatoes work best)
Shredded cheese – 1 cup sharp Cheddar or Monterey Jack, plus extra for topping
Eggs – 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Fresh chives or green onions – 3 tablespoons, finely chopped
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Garlic powder – optional
Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Generously grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, and chopped chives.
Mix gently until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Season with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder to taste.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each nearly to the top.
Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the tops are deeply golden and the puffs feel firm.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin.
How to Make
Use cold mashed potatoes to help the puffs hold their shape while baking.
Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Halfway through baking, sprinkle extra cheese on top of each puff.
Continue baking until the cheese melts and caramelizes into a crispy crust.
Let the puffs rest briefly before serving so they set properly.
Variations
Loaded potato puffs by adding crispy bacon bits and a spoonful of sour cream
Garlic and herb version using roasted garlic and fresh rosemary or thyme
Spicy Tex-Mex style with Pepper Jack cheese and chopped green chiles
Parmesan-crusted puffs for extra crispiness and sharp flavor
Mini party puffs baked in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized servings
Tips
Always use cold mashed potatoes to prevent collapse.
Grease the muffin tin thoroughly to avoid sticking.
Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the texture dense.
For extra crisp edges, sprinkle Parmesan around the sides of the muffin cups.
Reheat in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that elevates ordinary mashed potatoes into something special. Perfect for using leftovers or making fresh, they deliver irresistible crunch, flavor, and comfort in every bite.