Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491254H9M
Total time: PT-491254H9M
Cuisine: American
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)

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Introduction

If you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t let them go to waste! These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs turn simple ingredients into crispy, cheesy bites that make a perfect appetizer or snack. They’re easy to prepare and delicious warm from the oven.

The image shows several small, round, golden-brown cheese balls placed closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cheese ball has a crispy outer layer with a slightly uneven texture, showing hints of melted cheese. One cheese ball is held by a woman's hand with a silver fork piercing into it, revealing a soft, gooey, and creamy light yellow interior with visible melted cheese strands. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled on top of the cheese balls, adding a fresh color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

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

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little more Parmesan on top before baking.
Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for a flavorful twist.
If you don’t have fresh chives, green onions or dried herbs like parsley work well too.
Use smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of golden brown cheesy potato balls with a crispy outer layer and a soft, creamy inside. Each ball has bits of melted cheese visible on the surface, giving it a textured and appetizing look. One ball is being held by a woman's hand with a silver fork poking into the top of it, showing gooey melted cheese stretching out. The balls rest on a white plate with a few small green herb sprinkles on top. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work fine. Just make sure they are cooled before mixing to help the puffs hold their shape.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely. Freeze baked and cooled puffs in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen for best texture, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.