Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever craved a snack that perfectly balances crispiness with comfort? Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs deliver that satisfying crunch with every bite while wrapping around the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes and cheese. These delightful puffs are not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, transforming them into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Growing up, my family often gathered around the kitchen table for special occasions, and these crispy puffs always made an appearance. The aroma of golden-brown bites filling the kitchen would draw everyone in, each person eager to grab one before they disappeared. Whether served at a cozy dinner party or as a game day snack, Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs promise to bring joy and nostalgia to every bite. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy yet flavorful recipe.
Key Ingredients For Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mashed Potatoes: Use about 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes for the best flavor. If making fresh, ensure they are well-seasoned.
- Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a melty center that adds richness.
- Eggs: Two eggs will help bind all the ingredients together, providing structure to the puffs.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for coating. This will add that necessary crunch to each puff’s exterior.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions will introduce a fresh flavor and a pop of color in every bite.
For seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: This will enhance the overall flavor profile with its aromatic depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust these seasonings according to your taste preferences for the perfect balance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Second Step : Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Third Step : Form the Puffs
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls from the potato mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Fourth Step : Coat with Breadcrumbs
Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture when baked.
Fifth Step : Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serving Suggestion
Transfer warm Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs to a serving platter and enjoy them fresh out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauce.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover mashed potatoes you might have after dinner.
- Add Variety With Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper if you want an extra kick in your puffs.
- Keep Them Warm: If you’re serving these at a gathering, keep them warm in an oven set at low heat until it’s time to serve.
Cooking Instructions
To make your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, start by preparing your mashed potatoes. Boil peeled potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them until smooth. Let the mashed potatoes cool before adding other ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
Next, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties. Coat each puff lightly in breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cheese puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can be served as an appetizer or snack at any gathering. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce like sour cream mixed with herbs or a spicy aioli for added flavor. You can also enjoy them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal option.
For an elegant touch, consider serving them on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chives. These puffs are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of these Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until they regain their crispiness.
For longer storage, freeze the uncooked cheese puffs on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solidified. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Presentation Ideas
This Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- A side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- A refreshing cucumber salad.
- Your favorite spicy sauce to enhance flavors.
FAQs:
How can I make my Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs even cheesier?
To enhance the cheesiness of your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, consider using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Adding cream cheese into the mixture can also create a richer texture and flavor. Experimenting with different cheese combinations will give you unique taste profiles.
Can I prepare the Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare these puffs ahead of time by shaping them into balls and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. This makes it convenient for parties or busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
For the best results with your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These types yield fluffier mashed potatoes that provide a great base for your puffs. Avoid waxy potatoes as they tend to become gummy when mashed.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Yes! You can customize your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs by adding cooked bacon bits, herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition while keeping it interesting each time you make them.
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Description
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort snack, combining a satisfying crunch with creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese in every bite. Perfect for parties or as a quick appetizer, these puffs transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious treat that will impress your guests. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up this nostalgic favorite that’s sure to bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheese, eggs, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For extra cheesiness, mix different cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella. Add spices such as paprika or cayenne for a kick. These puffs can be made ahead of time; refrigerate shaped balls until ready to bake.



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