Turn leftover mashed potatoes into a cheesy, golden snack with these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! Crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside, they’re a creative, crowd-pleasing way to give leftovers new life. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or quick snack, they’re just as tasty reheated the next day.
Why You’ll Love These Cheese Puffs
Zero Waste: Repurpose leftovers into something amazing.
Cheesy & Crisp: Perfect texture contrast with gooey cheese inside.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Kid-Approved: A hit with even the pickiest eaters!
Time Needed
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 puffs (approx.)
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or preferred)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- Salt, to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2️⃣ Mix the Base
In a bowl, beat eggs and mix with sour cream. Stir in shredded cheese, Parmesan, chives, and a pinch of salt.
3️⃣ Add the Potatoes
Fold in mashed potatoes until the mixture is fully combined and cohesive.
4️⃣ Fill & Bake
Spoon mixture into muffin cups, filling to the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until tops are golden and puffed.
5️⃣ Cool & Serve
Let puffs cool slightly before removing from tin. Serve warm as a side dish or savory snack.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with roasted chicken, steak, or pork.
- Serve as party appetizers or holiday finger food.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Add-ins: Try bacon bits, sautéed onions, or jalapeños.
- Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack work great.
- Make Ahead: Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individually and reheat in the oven until crispy.
Final Thoughts
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a deliciously resourceful way to make use of extras. Crispy, cheesy, and satisfying, they’re perfect for meal prep or impressing guests with minimal effort. Next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, skip the microwave and whip up these irresistible puffs instead!
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Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs (approx.) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are golden, cheesy bites with a crisp exterior and gooey interior. Perfect as a side, snack, or appetizer—zero waste and full of flavor!
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or preferred)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- Salt, to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix eggs and sour cream. Stir in shredded cheese, Parmesan, chives, and salt.
- Fold in mashed potatoes until well combined.
- Spoon mixture into muffin cups, filling each to the top. Bake 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Cool slightly before removing. Serve warm as a side or savory snack.
Notes
Add bacon, onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor. Use sharp cheeses for bold taste. Store and reheat in oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
Keywords: mashed potato cheese puffs, leftover mashed potato recipe, cheesy potato bites, muffin tin snacks