Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs : The Perfect Recipe for Leftover Potatoes

Have you ever made a big batch of mashed potatoes only to have leftovers that you don’t know what to do with? Look no further than Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! These little bites of goodness are the perfect way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something new, flavorful, and exciting. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck, looking for a creative snack, or just trying to use up leftover potatoes, this recipe is your new go-to.

Cheesy, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside, these puffs are a great way to make the most of what’s left in your fridge. Packed with cheese and seasoned to perfection, these mashed potato puffs are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they are quick to make and can be easily customized to your taste.

Looking for more ways to use up leftover mashed potatoes? Check out our Instant Mashed Potato Recipes Ideas for more inspiration on how to make the most of mashed potatoes.

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What Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are bite-sized, golden, and crispy potato snacks made from leftover mashed potatoes. They are typically made by mixing the mashed potatoes with cheese, eggs, and breadcrumbs, then shaping them into small puffs and baking them until they are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.

These puffs are a versatile dish and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you have leftover mashed potatoes from a holiday meal or want to use up some instant mashed potatoes, this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy them in a new form.

Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made mashed potatoes)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)

You can easily adjust these ingredients based on your preferences, and you can even add in other seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is as easy as mixing, shaping, and baking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to easily scoop.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. You can also use a cookie scoop for even portions. Place the formed puffs on the prepared baking sheet. If you prefer a more uniform shape, you can gently flatten them with your fingers to make them look more like small patties.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs

Spray the puffs lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese.

These mashed potato leftover recipes ideas are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a creamy garlic sauce.

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Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

• Use well-seasoned mashed potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are a little bland, add extra salt, garlic powder, or any seasonings you like before forming the puffs.
• Add extra cheese: For extra flavor and cheesiness, feel free to add more shredded cheese into the mixture.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the ingredients can result in a denser texture. Stir until just combined to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
• Make them ahead: These puffs can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
• Customize the filling: Mix in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped herbs for extra flavor and texture.

Creative Variations for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These puffs are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations to try:

• Bacon and Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs: Add cooked bacon bits to the mashed potato mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spicy Mashed Potato Puffs: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a little heat.
• Herb Mashed Potato Puffs: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
• Garlic Mashed Potato Puffs: For garlic lovers, add more garlic powder or roasted garlic to the mixture for a rich, savory flavor.
• Vegan Mashed Potato Puffs: Use plant-based cheese and breadcrumbs, and swap the egg with a flaxseed egg or a plant-based binder.

Healthier Alternatives for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

While cheesy mashed potato puffs are already a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes, you can make them even healthier with a few substitutions:

• Use low-fat cheese: Swap regular cheese for low-fat or part-skim cheese to reduce the calorie content.
• Baked instead of fried: These puffs are baked in the oven, which makes them healthier than the deep-fried version.
• Use cauliflower: Swap some or all of the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower to reduce carbs and calories.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these puffs suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Serve and Pair Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These mashed potato puff recipes are perfect for serving alongside a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas for pairing them:

• With grilled chicken: Serve these puffs with grilled or roasted chicken for a hearty meal.
• As a side to steak or roast beef: Pair them with your favorite cuts of meat for a comforting dinner.
• With a salad: Serve these puffs alongside a crisp, fresh salad for a lighter meal.
• As an appetizer: These cheesy puffs make great appetizers for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Storage:
Store leftover cheesy mashed potato puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
To reheat, place the puffs back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a quick and crispy result.

Why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Are a Great Way to Use Leftover Potatoes

These mashed potato leftover recipes ideas are a great way to transform plain leftover mashed potatoes into something exciting. If you’re ever wondering, “What to do with leftover potatoes,” cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect answer. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures.

By making these puffs, you can reduce food waste while creating a delicious new dish from simple ingredients. They’re a great option for using up mashed potatoes from holiday dinners or big family meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

• Overmixing the ingredients: Stirring the ingredients too much can make the puffs dense and heavy. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not chilling the mixture: If you find the mixture too soft to shape, chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: To get crispy puffs, make sure there’s enough space between each puff so the hot air can circulate around them.
• Using under-seasoned mashed potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before mixing them into the puff mixture.

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FAQs About Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs and Using Leftover Potatoes

Can I make these puffs with instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just follow the instructions on the package to make the mashed potatoes, and proceed with the recipe as usual.

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the puffs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them before baking and bake them directly from the freezer.

Can I bake them instead of frying them?
Absolutely! These puffs are baked, which makes them healthier and less greasy than frying.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and create something new and delicious. With a crispy golden exterior and a cheesy, fluffy interior, these puffs are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they offer the ultimate comfort food experience.

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