Easy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs That Everyone Will Love

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, these cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect recipe. Whether you’re looking for a side dish that stands out at your next dinner party or a fun way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, these puffs are sure to become a favorite. They’re crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with all the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes with a cheesy twist.

Making cheesy mashed potato puffs is surprisingly easy, and the ingredients are simple yet incredibly flavorful. With just a handful of items, you can create little pockets of cheesy goodness that will wow anyone who tries them. What’s even better is that they’re a great make-ahead option. Once baked, you can store them and reheat them easily, which is perfect for busy nights or holiday meal prep.

These little puffs are perfect for almost any occasion. Serve them as a fun appetizer at a family gathering, a delicious side dish for a roast dinner, or even as a snack to munch on throughout the day. They’re crispy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying—what’s not to love?

Why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Are the Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something inherently comforting about mashed potatoes. They’re soft, creamy, and have a nostalgic quality that makes them the go-to comfort food for many. Now, imagine taking those mashed potatoes, adding some melty cheese, and turning them into crispy little puffs. That’s exactly what these cheesy mashed potato puffs do. They bring all the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes but with a crispy, golden exterior that makes them even more irresistible.

What makes these potato puffs so special is the combination of textures. The soft mashed potato filling is mixed with cheddar cheese, creating a rich and cheesy interior. The puffs themselves are then coated in breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, giving them a crispy outer shell. Each bite is a delightful mix of crispy and creamy, making them the perfect snack or side dish.

Moreover, these puffs are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them warm, right out of the oven, or at room temperature as a snack. They’re easy to serve and can be paired with just about anything, from soups and salads to grilled meats. The addition of cheese takes them to the next level, transforming simple mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.

Who Will Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

This recipe is perfect for a wide range of people. First and foremost, anyone who loves mashed potatoes will absolutely adore these puffs. They’re a great way to elevate a classic dish and make it more fun to eat. If you’re someone who enjoys cheesy dishes, you’ll love the cheesy filling that’s gooey and satisfying with every bite.

These cheesy mashed potato puffs are also great for families. Kids, in particular, love the crispy, cheesy exterior, and the mashed potato filling is familiar and comforting to most little eaters. If you have picky eaters at home, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables or seasonings. You can even make them smaller for bite-sized snacks that are easy to eat and fun to dip.

Additionally, if you’re someone who enjoys meal prep or likes to make food ahead of time, these puffs are a perfect option. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them. They’re also excellent for gatherings like potlucks, holidays, or dinner parties, where they can be served as an appetizer or side dish.

Save

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

The ingredients for these cheesy mashed potato puffs are simple and easy to find. Most of them are pantry staples, and you likely have them on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead of time or freshly made)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Extra shredded cheese (for topping)

This combination of ingredients gives you the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The mashed potatoes provide the creamy base, the cheeses add richness, and the seasonings enhance the overall taste. The egg helps bind everything together, while the breadcrumbs give the puffs their signature crispy coating.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making cheesy mashed potato puffs is simple and doesn’t require any special equipment. Follow these easy steps to create your perfect puffs:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the mashed potatoes: If you don’t already have mashed potatoes prepared, make them first. You can use leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal, or cook up a fresh batch by boiling peeled and chopped potatoes until tender. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Let them cool slightly before using them in the next steps.
3. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a little more flour to help bind it.
4. Shape the puffs: Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball or shape it into a small oval. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used up.
5. Coat the puffs: In a shallow bowl, pour the breadcrumbs. Gently roll each shaped puff in the breadcrumbs to coat the outside evenly.
6. Bake the puffs: Arrange the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them lightly with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking if you like extra cheesy puffs.
7. Serve: Once they are done, remove the puffs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Save

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe

Making cheesy mashed potato puffs requires only a few basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
• Shallow bowl for coating the puffs
• Spoon or ice cream scoop (for shaping the puffs)
• Pastry brush (for buttering the puffs)

That’s it! With these simple tools, you’ll have everything you need to make these delicious little bites of comfort.

Tips for the Best Texture and Flavor

To get the perfect texture and flavor in your cheesy mashed potato puffs, follow these tips:

• Use fresh, fluffy mashed potatoes: For the best texture, make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and not too runny. You want them to hold their shape when rolled into puffs. If your mashed potatoes are too thin, add a bit of extra flour to help bind them.
• Season well: Don’t forget to season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. The cheeses will add richness, but you still need that base seasoning.
• Use cold mashed potatoes: If you’re using freshly made mashed potatoes, allow them to cool slightly before mixing them with the other ingredients. This helps them firm up and prevents the egg from scrambling.
• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs are what give the puffs their crispy, golden exterior. Make sure you coat them well before baking to get that perfect crunch.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mashed Potato Puffs

Even though this recipe is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the potato mixture: When you mix the mashed potatoes with the other ingredients, avoid overworking the mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy puffs rather than light, fluffy ones.
• Underseasoning: Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before mixing them with the cheese and other ingredients. If they’re bland, the puffs will be bland.
• Using warm mashed potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are too warm, they can cause the puffs to fall apart or not hold their shape when you bake them. Let them cool slightly before mixing.

Delicious Add-Ins and Variations to Try

While these cheesy mashed potato puffs are perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to make them your own:

• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme add a fresh, fragrant flavor to the mashed potatoes. You can mix them into the filling for a burst of color and taste.
• Add bacon: For a more savory twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the filling. The smoky, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the cheesy potatoes.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick. The heat pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese.
• Veggies: You can sneak in some finely chopped spinach, broccoli, or other veggies to make these puffs even more nutritious.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

These cheesy mashed potato puffs are great on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve them as a side with your favorite roast or grilled meats. They’re also perfect with a fresh green salad for a light meal. For a fun snack, serve them with dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or hot sauce.

If you’re serving them at a party or as an appetizer, consider making mini puffs for bite-sized portions. They’re perfect for dipping and sharing.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

These puffs store well and can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but the texture will be softer. For longer storage, you can freeze the puffs after baking, then reheat from frozen.

Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Healthy? Nutritional Info

While these puffs are undeniably delicious, they are a bit indulgent with the cheese and pastry. However, you can make them a bit lighter by using lighter cheese or by cutting back on the butter and oil. The mashed potatoes are also a good source of potassium and fiber, especially if you leave the skins on when mashing them.

Overall, cheesy mashed potato puffs are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, but they can certainly be a healthier option when prepared with care.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs FAQ

Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs up to the point of baking and refrigerate or freeze them. Bake them right before serving for the best texture.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes would add a nice twist. Just be sure to mash them well and adjust the seasoning.

What’s the best way to freeze them?
After baking, allow the puffs to cool completely. Then, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready.

Final Thoughts and Recipe Wrap-Up

These cheesy mashed potato puffs are a fantastic way to take the classic comfort food to the next level. With their crispy, golden exterior and cheesy, tender interior, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal or gathering. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, a snack, or an appetizer, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Give this recipe a try and experience the perfect combination of flavors and textures in each bite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to the blog for more easy, delicious dishes that everyone will love.

Print