Cheesy mashed potato puffs are little bites of creamy, cheesy goodness with a golden, crispy outside. They’re made from smooth mashed potatoes mixed with plenty of cheese, then baked or fried until they’re perfectly puffed and wonderfully crunchy on the edges.
I love making these because they’re a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes, turning something simple into a fun snack or side dish. Whenever I serve these, everyone always asks for seconds – they’re just that good! Plus, you can easily switch up the cheese or add some herbs to make them your own.
My favorite way to enjoy cheesy mashed potato puffs is warm right out of the oven, maybe with a little sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce on the side. They’re perfect for parties, a cozy family dinner, or even just a comforting treat when you want something special but easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use smooth, cooled mashed potatoes for the best texture. Leftovers work great! Avoid chunky potatoes as they won’t hold together well.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are my favorites here for a melty, creamy inside. Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. You can swap cheddar with Gruyère or any mild melting cheese you like.
Egg & Flour: These help bind the potatoes and cheese so the puffs keep their shape. For a gluten-free option, try cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Onions & Herbs: Finely chopped onions add a mild bite, but feel free to skip or replace them with green onions or chives. For garnish, fresh thyme or parsley adds freshness and color.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Edges on My Potato Puffs?
Achieving a crispy outside with a soft, cheesy center is all about baking and preparation:
- Grease your muffin tin well with butter or cooking spray to encourage browning.
- Press the mixture firmly into the muffin cups to help them hold their shape.
- Bake at a high temperature (around 400°F / 200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the tops turn golden brown.
- Using melted butter in the mixture adds richness and helps the edges crisp nicely.
- Let the puffs cool slightly before removing them from the tin to avoid breaking.
Following these tips will give you that perfect mix of crunch outside and soft, cheesy goodness inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Muffin tin – shapes the puffs perfectly and helps them bake evenly with crispy edges.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all your ingredients comfortably.
- Spoon or scoop – for filling the muffin cups without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients balanced and consistent.
- Oven mitts – important for safely handling the hot muffin tin when the puffs are done.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky, meaty twist that adds extra flavor and texture.
- Mix in chopped green onions or chives to give the puffs a fresh, mild onion kick.
- Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a bit of spicy heat.
- Stir in some cooked spinach or finely chopped roasted red peppers for a pop of color and nutrition.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably smooth and cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing the muffin tin
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20 to 25 minutes to bake. You’ll spend some time mixing up your cheesy mashed potato mix, then baking the puffs until they’re golden and crispy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or butter so the puffs won’t stick.
2. Mix All Ingredients Together:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan, egg, flour, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using onions, mix them in now. Stir everything well so the mixture is a bit sticky but holds together.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the muffin cups. Press down slightly so the mixture is packed and will hold its shape while baking.
4. Bake the Puffs:
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges crisp up nicely.
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, let the puffs cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove them, then sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top before serving.
Enjoy your warm, crispy, cheesy mashed potato puffs as a delightful snack or a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for these puffs. Just make sure they’re smooth and not too watery for the best texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs and refrigerate them before baking. When ready, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy, or microwave briefly for convenience.
What Can I Substitute for Flour if I’m Gluten-Free?
You can swap all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to help bind the mixture without gluten.