Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a creative and delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy snack or side dish. These puffs are light and fluffy on the inside, golden and crispy on the outside, and bursting with cheesy goodness in every bite. If you often find yourself with extra mashed potatoes after big meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners, this recipe is the perfect solution. These cheese puffs are easy to make, versatile, and make a great appetizer, snack, or breakfast treat. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make mashed potato cheese puffs that will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a fantastic way to use up extra mashed potatoes without letting them go to waste. They’re crispy on the outside, thanks to the baking or frying process, and creamy on the inside with gooey, melted cheese in each bite. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can customize it with different types of cheese, herbs, and seasonings, or add extras like bacon, chives, or jalapeños for extra flavor. Plus, they’re quick to whip up and perfect for serving as party snacks, breakfast bites, or as a side dish with dinner.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 12-15 puffs
• Serving Size: 2-3 puffs

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese of choice)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings

• 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños or bell peppers
• Extra shredded cheese for topping
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour (or breadcrumbs), green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and add any optional ingredients, like crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños, if desired.
3. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and you have a thick, cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Potato Puffs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat oil in a skillet if frying.
2. Lightly grease a muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray if baking, or prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for a flatter, crispy version.
3. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out small balls of the potato mixture, about 1-2 tablespoons each. Gently roll each portion into a ball with your hands.
4. Place each ball into the prepared muffin tin or on the baking sheet, or set aside if frying.

Step 3: Bake or Fry the Puffs

Baking Method

1. Place the muffin tin or baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese puffs are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
2. If you want extra crispy tops, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cheese puffs cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin or baking sheet.

Frying Method

1. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato balls, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan.
3. Fry each puff for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs with fresh parsley or chives and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, if desired.
2. Serve warm with dipping sauces like sour cream, ketchup, or a creamy ranch dressing for an extra treat.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs adds flavor and texture. Leftover mashed potatoes provide a creamy, soft base for the puffs, while the egg helps bind the ingredients together. Shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan add a savory, cheesy flavor that melts into the potatoes as they bake or fry. The flour or breadcrumbs give structure, so the puffs hold their shape, and green onions add a pop of freshness. Garlic powder and onion powder give subtle, savory undertones, enhancing the flavor profile without overpowering the cheese and potatoes.

Technique Tips

To ensure your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are perfectly crisp and golden, follow these simple tips. For best results, use well-chilled leftover mashed potatoes, as they’re easier to handle and shape. If your potatoes are particularly soft or creamy, you may need to add extra flour or breadcrumbs to get the right consistency. When shaping, use a cookie scoop to make uniform portions, which helps them cook evenly. If baking, be sure to grease the muffin tin well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. For frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potato puffs to achieve a crisp exterior.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can be presented in various ways to suit different occasions. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for an easy appetizer at parties. For a brunch or breakfast spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. You can also make mini cheese puffs by shaping the mixture into smaller balls, perfect for a bite-sized snack. If you’re serving them as a side dish for dinner, arrange them in a baking dish and top with extra cheese, then broil until bubbly for a casserole-style presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

For the best flavor and texture, make sure to season the potato mixture well with salt and pepper before baking or frying. If you prefer extra-cheesy puffs, top each puff with a sprinkle of shredded cheese in the last few minutes of baking. If you’re frying, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and prevent the puffs from crisping up. Let the puffs cool slightly before serving, as this helps them firm up. To keep the puffs warm before serving, place them in an oven at 200°F until ready to eat.

Recipe Variations

This Mashed Potato Cheese Puff recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it to your taste preferences. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For extra savory flavor, mix in crumbled bacon or diced ham. You can also try using different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack, for unique flavors. For a gluten-free option, replace the flour with gluten-free flour or use ground oats. If you like herbs, add a bit of fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil to the potato mixture for an aromatic twist.

Freezing and Storage

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated if needed. To store leftovers, place the puffs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. To freeze, place the puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and crispy.

Healthier Twist Ideas

To make these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs a bit healthier, consider a few substitutions. Use reduced-fat cheese to lower the fat content, or add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli to increase the fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or replace half with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without extra calories. For a lower-carb version, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and bake instead of frying to reduce the overall fat content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are an excellent choice for parties, gatherings, and brunch events. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, like spicy aioli, sour cream, marinara sauce, or ranch dressing, allowing guests to try different flavors. For a holiday spread, arrange the puffs on a platter with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a festive touch. If you’re serving them as part of a breakfast or brunch buffet, pair them with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and smoked salmon. These cheese puffs also make a great addition to a game-day menu alongside sliders, wings, and other finger foods.

Special Equipment

To make these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, you don’t need any special equipment, but a few basic tools can help. A muffin tin is useful for baking, as it helps the puffs hold their shape, but a baking sheet lined with parchment paper will work as well. A cookie scoop is helpful for portioning out the potato mixture evenly, and a whisk is useful for combining the ingredients thoroughly. If you’re frying the puffs, a large skillet or frying pan is essential, and a slotted spoon makes it easy to remove the puffs from the oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used if you don’t have leftovers. Just make sure they’re thick and well-seasoned, as very creamy potatoes may need extra flour to hold their shape.

2. Can I make these cheese puffs without eggs?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to help bind the ingredients.

3. Can I bake these cheese puffs instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a great option and yields crispy puffs with less oil. Just bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

4. How do I keep the cheese puffs from falling apart?
If your mixture is too soft or sticky, try adding more flour or breadcrumbs. Chilling the mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping can also help.

5. Can I make these cheese puffs gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

6. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Swiss, pepper jack, or Gruyère also work well. For a sharper taste, try using blue cheese or feta.

7. Can I add other ingredients to the potato mixture?
Yes! Try mixing in diced ham, chopped cooked spinach, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture.

8. Can I freeze these cheese puffs before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped puffs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful and creative way to use up extra mashed potatoes, transforming them into crispy, cheesy bites that everyone will love. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy center, these puffs are perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you bake or fry them, serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these versatile cheese puffs are guaranteed to be a hit. With plenty of customization options and easy storage, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs and give your leftovers a tasty makeover!

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