Description
Leftover mashed potato cheese puffs are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with melty cheese—making them the ultimate way to reinvent leftover mashed potatoes. These bite-sized snacks are perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or anytime comfort food that’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
For Cooking
- Oil or cooking spray for baking/frying
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F if baking, or heat oil in a skillet to 350°F if frying. Prepare a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet if baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chopped green onions or chives (if using), and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is thick and easy to roll. Add more breadcrumbs if mixture is too wet.
- Form Puffs: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls or shape into small patties. For extra crunch, roll each puff in additional breadcrumbs.
- Baking Option: Arrange the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crisp, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Frying Option: Fry the puffs in hot oil at 350°F for 2–3 minutes per side until they are deeply golden. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the cheese puffs warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as sour cream or ranch for maximum flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- You can mix in crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- These cheese puffs also work great in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes for a quicker cooking method.
- Freeze leftovers before baking and cook them straight from frozen for a quick and convenient snack anytime.
