Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Introduction

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into bite-sized, cheesy snacks. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these puffs make a perfect appetizer or side dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 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
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Step 4: Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
5. Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
7. Step 7: Let the puffs cool for 5 minutes in the pan before gently removing them.
8. Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before baking.
• Try adding cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños to the mixture for more flavor.
• If you don’t have chives, green onions or fresh parsley work well as substitutes.
• Use spicy cheddar cheese for a kick, or mild cheese for a more mellow flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, but make sure your mashed potatoes are cold and firm to help the puffs hold their shape. Slightly drier mashed potatoes work best.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely. Freeze baked cheese puffs in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat directly from frozen in a warm oven until heated through and crispy.

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 72 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 24 mini cheese puffs 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bites. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives for a flavorful treat baked to golden perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mashed 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cheese puffs evenly and to crisp the tops.
2. Prepare Muffin Pan. Generously grease a mini muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the cheese puffs after baking.
3. Combine Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes with the beaten egg, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh chives, garlic powder if using, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix until just combined without overworking to maintain a tender texture.
4. Fill Muffin Cups. Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for slight puffing while baking.
5. Bake. Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese puffs are golden brown on top and crispy around the edges.
6. Cool and Remove. Let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes to firm up, then gently remove them from the muffin cups to avoid breaking.
7. Serve. Serve warm as a tasty snack, appetizer, or side dish and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness.

Notes

• Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for best texture and easier handling.
• Fresh chives can be substituted with green onions or parsley for different flavor nuances.
• The garlic powder is optional but adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• For a crispier bottom, try baking on a preheated baking sheet.
• These cheese puffs can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

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

Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, cheddar cheese, appetizer, snack, baked potato bites