Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are what comfort food dreams are made of. These little puffs are golden and crispy on the outside, but soft and fluffy within, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. Made with creamy mashed potatoes blended with gooey cheese and simple seasonings, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.

They are a clever way to use up leftover mashed potatoes but are so delicious, you might just make mashed potatoes specifically to whip up a batch. Whether served for a casual brunch, added to a dinner spread, or enjoyed as a late-night treat, these cheese puffs promise to deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

You’ll fall in love with these because they hit all the right notes—crispy, creamy, cheesy, and perfectly savory. They’re easy to make, highly customizable with your favorite add-ins like chives or bacon, and ideal for both kids and adults. Plus, they freeze well, making them a convenient make-ahead option.

Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes for This?

Yes, you can! While fresh mashed potatoes are ideal for their richer flavor and texture, instant mashed potatoes can be a time-saving substitute. Just make sure they are thick and not too watery to hold the shape of the puffs during baking. If you go the instant route, consider adding a bit more cheese or herbs to boost the flavor.

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs come together with a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a special role in building flavor and structure. From rich dairy to savory enhancements, here’s what you’ll need to bring these puffs to life:

• Mashed potatoes
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• All-purpose flour
• Chopped chives
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Butter or cooking spray

The mashed potatoes are the foundation, giving the puffs their tender texture. Cheddar cheese adds gooey richness, while Parmesan cheese deepens the savory profile. The egg binds everything together, and a bit of flour ensures the puffs hold their shape. Chives introduce a mild oniony note, and the seasoning trio of salt, pepper, and garlic powder round out the flavor. A touch of butter or spray helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.

How To Make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, egg, flour, chives, and seasonings. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is thick but pliable.

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into small balls or scoop into mini muffin tins. Make sure each puff is uniform in size so they bake evenly.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or mini muffin tin with butter or spray. Arrange the puffs with a bit of space between them and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is still melty and the edges have that perfect crunch.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple recipes like these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can trip you up if you’re not careful. One common mistake is using mashed potatoes that are too wet. They need to be thick and well-drained so the puffs hold their shape and don’t end up flat. Another pitfall is skimping on the seasoning. Taste your mixture before baking to ensure it’s flavorful. Also, avoid overcrowding your baking sheet; the puffs need space to crisp up.

Serving and Storing Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These delightful cheese puffs serve about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. They are best served fresh from the oven, still warm and crispy. If you do have leftovers, let them cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness. You can also freeze them for up to one month, making them a great make-ahead snack or side.

What to Serve With Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Marinated Grilled Chicken

The light, smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the rich cheesiness of the puffs.

Creamy Tomato Soup

Dip these puffs into a bowl of tangy tomato soup for an elevated comfort food experience.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

A fresh, garlicky side balances out the richness perfectly.

Crispy Bacon Strips

Bacon brings salty crunch and even more savory depth to the plate.

Fried Eggs

Add a few puffs alongside fried eggs for a fun brunch idea.

Simple Garden Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Spicy Aioli or Ranch Dipping Sauce

Enhance the flavor of the puffs with a dipping sauce that adds some kick or creaminess.

Want More Potato Appetizer Ideas?

If these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs won your heart, you’re in for a treat with these other comforting potato creations:

• Try the ultra-satisfying Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for another golden, cheesy bite.
• Savor the classic flavor of Funeral Potatoes layered with creamy and crunchy textures.
• Dive into the bold spices of Mexican Potatoes when you want something with a kick.
• For a comforting full meal, check out the Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with potato-style satisfaction.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold with sharp cheddar? Maybe added jalapeños or crumbled bacon?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and daily recipe inspiration on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good bites.

Conclusion

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the definition of cozy, easy cooking. They bring the joy of comfort food with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want something deliciously different to snack on, these puffs will quickly become a favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable—what more could you want?

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