Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a perfect way to transform cold leftover mashed potatoes into golden, crispy, cheesy bites. These puffs are baked to perfection, combining sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives for a flavorful snack or side dish that’s perfect for breakfast, appetizers, or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to create crispy outsides for the cheese puffs.
Prepare Muffin Pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and help the puffs release smoothly.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold leftover mashed potatoes, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped chives or green onions, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Mix Gently: Stir the mixture until just combined, careful not to overwork it, which helps maintain a light texture.
Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow for slight puffing during baking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Cool and Remove: Allow the cheese puffs to cool for 5 minutes in the tin before gently removing them to prevent breaking.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your crispy, cheesy mashed potato puffs as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Notes

You can customize the flavor by adding herbs like parsley or spices such as paprika.
Leftover mashed potatoes should be cold to make mixing easier and the puffs firmer.
Using a mini muffin pan creates bite-sized puffs perfect for parties or snacks.
If you prefer crispier puffs, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
These puffs can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

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

Keywords: Leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, appetizer, snack, easy recipe, baked potato bites