Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491255H45M34S
Total time: PT-491255H45M34S
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

Transform your cold leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy puffs perfect for snacks or appetizers. These easy-to-make cheese puffs are packed with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives, baked until golden and delicious.

The image shows a close-up of golden-brown crispy cheese balls piled on a white plate. Each cheese ball has a crunchy outer layer with melted, soft cheese visible inside. One cheese ball is being held by a woman's hand with a silver fork piercing it, showing gooey cheese stretch. The cheese balls are sprinkled with small green herb bits for color contrast. The background is a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright look. 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.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Let the puffs cool for 5 minutes in the pan before gently removing them.
Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little additional Parmesan on top before baking.
Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for a smoky or spicy twist.
If you don’t have chives, green onions or fresh parsley work well as substitutes.
Make sure the mashed potatoes are cold and firm to help the puffs hold their shape.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows several round golden brown cheese balls with a crispy outside and soft, creamy inside. One cheese ball is held by a silver fork lifted above the others, showing its gooey, melted cheese texture with small green herb pieces on top. The cheese balls have a slightly rough, uneven surface with browned bits all over, resting on a white plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

It’s best to use leftover homemade mashed potatoes for the right texture, but if your instant mashed potatoes are thick and well-cooled, they can work as a substitute.

Can I freeze the cheese puffs?

Yes, you can freeze baked cheese puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.