Description

Golden, crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy on the inside—Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food snack or side dish. Made with leftover mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and simple pantry staples, these little bites are packed with flavor and easy to whip up for dinner parties, family meals, or even lunchbox treats.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Cheese Puffs:

2 cups cold mashed potatoes (smooth and creamy style)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
1 large egg
¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of your potatoes)
½ tsp baking powder (optional, for extra puffiness)

For Baking or Frying:

Olive oil spray (for baking) or
Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven (or Prep Frying Pan)
For baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
For frying: Heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Make the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, flour, chives, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and baking powder if using.
Mix until the texture is thick and scoopable. If too loose, add more flour 1 tbsp at a time.

Step 3: Scoop & Shape
Using a spoon or scoop, form 1–2 tablespoon-sized mounds of the mixture.
For baking: Drop mixture into muffin tins or shape into small patties for the baking sheet.
For frying: Shape into small balls or discs and place on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Puffs
Baking Method:
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and edges are crisp.
Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

Pan-Frying Method:
Fry shaped potato balls in the skillet, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, sour cream, or ketchup work great.

Notes

Use Cold Potatoes – Cold mashed potatoes are easier to handle and shape.
Don’t Overmix – Just combine enough to bring everything together.
Add Herbs – Fresh parsley, dill, or thyme add brightness.
Stuff Them – Add a cube of cheese to the center of each puff for a molten core.
Make It Spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Cuisine: American