Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – A Comfort-Filled Treat to Delight Your Loved Ones
There’s no better way to warm hearts and bring smiles to your loved ones than through the magic of comforting, cheesy, golden-baked treats. Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy on the outside, fluffy and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these puffs are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
🧀 Why You’ll Fall in Love with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Great use for leftover mashed potatoes
- Crispy outside, creamy inside
- Perfect for kids and adults alike
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and cheeses
- Freezer-friendly and meal prep approved
With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can transform cold mashed potatoes into golden, cheesy delights your entire family will crave.
🛒 Ingredients – Simple, Flavor-Packed Comfort
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cold mashed potatoes | 3 cups |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Chopped fresh chives | ¼ cup |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Grated Parmesan cheese (for coating) | ¼ cup |
| Ghee or cooking spray | For greasing muffin tin |
Note: Cold mashed potatoes work best for this recipe as they hold their shape better during baking.
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Potato Puffs
✅ Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a muffin tin with ghee or cooking spray to prevent sticking and encourage a golden crust.
✅ Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped chives
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and scoopable.
✅ Step 3: Shape and Coat
- Scoop the mixture into equal portions and roll into balls (about golf ball-sized).
- Roll each ball in grated Parmesan cheese for a crisp, golden crust.
- Gently place each coated ball into a muffin cup.
Pro Tip: Use a cookie scoop for even portions and consistent cooking.
✅ Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the edges are crisp.
You’ll know they’re done when the tops are slightly puffed and the Parmesan forms a golden shell.
✅ Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
- Let the puffs cool for a few minutes in the pan before removing.
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or alongside roasted meats, soup, or salad.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like:
- Sour cream and chive dip
- Spicy aioli
- Garlic herb yogurt sauce
- Ranch or honey mustard
🧂 Flavor Variations – Make It Your Own
These mashed potato puffs are extremely versatile. Try one of these fun variations:
- Bacon Cheddar: Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
- Loaded Potato Style: Add green onions, sour cream, and bits of ham.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Herb-Forward: Swap chives for parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free cheese, vegan egg substitute, and olive oil spray.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
🧺 To Store:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
🔥 To Reheat:
- Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy
- Air Fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes
- Microwave: 30 seconds (though they may lose crispiness)
❄️ To Freeze:
- Freeze uncooked or cooked puffs on a baking sheet until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Bake from frozen at 400°F, adding 5 extra minutes.
❤️ Why These Puffs Are Truly “Culinary Love Letters”
When we say food is a language of love, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect example. They’re made with simple ingredients, but the flavor and joy they deliver go far beyond their humble roots.
Each puff is a bite-sized piece of home—crispy, cheesy, fluffy, and full of comfort. Whether you’re surprising your partner with a homemade brunch, packing a lunchbox with something special, or simply treating yourself to a warm, cheesy snack, this recipe is bound to become part of your cherished kitchen traditions.