Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489596H48M15S
Total time: PT-489596H48M15S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 480 g leftover mashed potatoes; 120 g shredded cheddar cheese or other preferred cheese; 25 g grated Parmesan cheese; 32 g all-purpose flour; 1 large egg, beaten; 15 g chopped green onions or chives (optional); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Neutral oil for frying or brushing

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: November 7, 2025

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Introduction to Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Are you looking for a delightful way to use those leftover mashed potatoes? Let me introduce you to Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! These puffs are not just a clever way to repurpose leftovers; they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Imagine the crispy outer layer giving way to a cheesy, fluffy center. Perfect for a snack, an appetizer, or even a quick meal, these puffs are something you’ll want to whip up during your busy days. Your family will be raving about them, and you’ll feel like a culinary hero without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are incredible! They’re super easy to make, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. With just a handful of ingredients, these puffs marry wonderful flavors in no time. They’ll impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat. Plus, the cheesy goodness makes them a hit with picky eaters! Who can resist a crispy, cheesy snack?

Ingredients for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Leftover mashed potatoes: This is your base. Creamy and seasoned mashed potatoes give them great flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese: I love cheddar for its sharpness, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese!
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice salty kick and depth of flavor to balance the richness.
All-purpose flour: This helps bind everything together, giving the puffs structure.
Large egg: A key ingredient for binding the mixture while adding richness.
Chopped green onions or chives (optional): Fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and oniony flavor. Use this if you have it on hand!
Garlic powder: This will infuse a warm, comforting taste that makes these puffs simply irresistible.
Onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, it adds a subtle dimension of flavor without being overpowering.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Adjust to your taste preference.
Black pepper: A perfect partner to lift the dish and give it a little bite.
Neutral oil for frying or brushing: Choose something like canola or vegetable oil for frying to get that perfect crunch.

You can find exact quantities listed at the bottom of the article, along with a printable version for your convenience.

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Making these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is as fun as eating them! Follow these steps for a perfectly cheesy, golden snack that the whole family will love.

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Toss in those creamy leftover mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, flour, and the beaten egg. If you chose to include green onions or chives, add them now. Sprinkle in the garlic and onion powders, along with salt and pepper.

Mix it up until everything is well combined. You should have a thick, cohesive mixture that looks a bit like a cheesy cloud. The textures will be comforting, creamy, and just a bit sticky. But don’t worry, that’s how we want it!

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

Now comes the fun part! Use your hands to portion out 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture sticks to your hands, don’t fret! Dust your palms lightly with flour to make shaping easier.

Place each ball gently onto a plate or a parchment-lined tray as you create them. This little step will keep your workspace tidy and make frying a breeze!

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, pour enough neutral oil to cover the bottom in a thin layer. Turn the burner to medium heat and let the oil heat up. You can test it by dropping a small piece of the puff mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, you’re in business!

Be careful not to overheat the oil, as it could splatter. Fry the puffs in batches, leaving space for them to float—about 4 or 5 at a time should do. Turn them occasionally for even browning.

Step 4: Bake for Crispiness

If you’d prefer a healthier option, preheat your oven to 200°C (around 400°F). Arrange the shaped puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with your oil of choice to help them crisp up nicely.

Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through. Keep an eye on them; they should come out golden brown and oh-so-crispy. A little poke will tell you they are done if they feel firm to the touch!

Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce

Time to dig in! These puffs pair fabulously with a variety of dipping sauces. Think rich sour cream, zesty ranch, or even a tangy ketchup. Serve warm for the best experience, and watch your family rush in for more!

Tips for Success

Make sure the mashed potatoes are well-seasoned for the best flavor.
If the mixture is too runny, add a little more flour until it firms up.
For extra flavor, experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying; give each puff room to crisp up.
Save leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a quick snack!

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: Any sturdy bowl will do—just make sure it’s big enough for mixing!
Skillet: You can use a frying pan; just ensure it has high sides to avoid splatter.
Parchment paper: This will help keep the puffs from sticking in the oven.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing and flipping those delicious puffs!

Variations of Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Spicy Jalapeño Puffs: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Perfect for those who love heat!
Herbed Puffs: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an added layer of flavor. This gives the puffs a delightful aroma!
Cheese Medley: Swap cheddar and Parmesan for a mix of mozzarella and gouda for a creamier texture and different flavor profile.
Sweet Potato Version: Use leftover sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a sweet twist that’s still satisfying.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free treat!
Vegan Puffs: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water) to create a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Pair the puffs with a crispy side salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serve alongside vegetable sticks for a colorful plate.
For drinks, consider a light beer or sparkling water with lemon.
Presentation tip: Arrange puffs on a wooden board with various dipping sauces for a rustic touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs to add color and freshness.

FAQs about Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! While these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are perfect for using up leftovers, fresh mashed potatoes work just as well. Just make sure they are slightly cooled before mixing to achieve the right texture.

Can I make these cheese puffs ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the puffs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if cooking from frozen.

What can I dip these puffs in?

The cheesy goodness of these puffs pairs great with various dipping sauces. Sour cream, ranch dressing, or even homemade marinara are excellent choices. Get creative and try your favorites!

How do I store leftovers?

If you’re lucky enough to have any puffs left, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Are these puffs easy to customize?

Definitely! You can add different cheeses, spices, or even veggies to suit your taste buds. Experimenting with additions will create a personalized snack that’s unique to you!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs that will surely become a favorite in your household! These delightful snacks offer a way to use up leftovers while creating something unique and scrumptious. In just under an hour, you can enjoy these crispy treats that bring smiles and warm hearts. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, these puffs are bound to impress. So grab your leftover mashed potatoes, and let your culinary creativity shine! You might just discover a new family tradition to cherish!