Description

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bites perfect as appetizers or snacks. Combining sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives, these puffs bake to golden perfection and are ideal for using up leftovers with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Mixture

2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Greasing

Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the potato puffs perfectly.
Prepare Muffin Pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and help with easy removal of the puffs.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes, beaten egg, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh chives or green onions, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Combine Gently: Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain the texture without overworking the mixture, which could make the puffs dense.
Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full to allow space for puffing and browning.
Bake: Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy, indicating they are cooked through and flavorful.
Cool Slightly: Let the cheese puffs cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes to firm up and make removal easier without breaking.
Serve: Gently remove the puffs from the tin, serve warm, and enjoy these tasty, cheesy bites as a snack or appetizer.

Notes

Use cold leftover mashed potatoes as the base for best texture and ease of shaping.
You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or a cheese blend for different flavors.
Adding garlic powder is optional but adds a nice subtle flavor.
For a crispier bottom, place the muffin pan on a preheated baking sheet.
These puffs can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
Variations can include adding cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: mashed potato puffs, cheese puffs, leftover mashed potatoes, baked snacks, mini muffins, appetizer, cheddar cheese snack