Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Here's something you'll love: warm, golden, and irresistibly cheesy mashed potato puffs. These little bites of comfort are crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they disappear fast—so you might want to make a double batch.

this Recipe

I first made these when I had a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes and needed a creative way to use them. What started as an experiment quickly became a family favorite, and now I make them on purpose! Whether you're looking for an easy party snack or a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes, this recipe will not disappoint.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food in bite-sized form. These cheesy mashed potato puffs are as fun to eat as they are to make.

They're incredibly easy to whip up. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you’re already halfway there! Just mix, scoop, and bake—no frying required.

They're packed with cheesy, creamy goodness. The combination of melty cheese and fluffy mashed potatoes creates a texture that's both rich and light.

They're a great way to use up leftovers. Instead of reheating plain mashed potatoes, turn them into something exciting that the whole family will devour.

They’re perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a side dish, a party snack, or even a lunchbox treat. Kids and adults alike will love them!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cheesy mashed potato puffs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in making them crispy, creamy, and oh-so-delicious.

Mashed potatoes are the base of this recipe, and using creamy, well-seasoned mashed potatoes is key. If your potatoes are a little dry, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. If they're already buttery and flavorful, you’re good to go.

Cheese is what makes these puffs irresistibly gooey. I recommend using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella—the cheddar adds a bold flavor, while the mozzarella brings that perfect stretchy, melty texture. Feel free to swap in Parmesan, Gruyère, or your favorite cheese blend.

Eggs act as the binder, helping the puffs hold their shape while baking. They also add a little extra fluffiness to the final texture. Make sure to beat them well before mixing them in.

Green onions or chives provide a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and potatoes. They also add a hint of color, making the puffs look even more appetizing.

Breadcrumbs help create that crispy outer layer. You can use regular breadcrumbs or panko for an extra crunch. If you want a gluten-free version, opt for almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.

You'll also need a muffin tin to shape the puffs. Greasing the tin well ensures they pop out easily after baking.

How To Make This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Making these cheesy mashed potato puffs is as simple as mixing, scooping, and baking. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or nonstick spray—this will help create those crisp, golden edges.

In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, green onions, and breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.

Scoop the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup nearly to the top. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently press the mixture down so it’s compact. This helps them bake evenly and hold their shape.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy. You’ll know they’re done when they pull away slightly from the edges of the tin. Let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the pan.

Serve them warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite. These are best fresh out of the oven but can be reheated easily.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, ready to be reheated whenever you need a quick snack.

For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or air-fry them for extra crispiness.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

For a bacon-loaded version, mix in crispy, crumbled bacon before baking. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and cheese.

Want a spicy kick? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for some heat. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.

If you love garlic, stir in a little garlic powder or roasted garlic for extra depth of flavor. It adds a subtle, savory richness that enhances every bite.

To make them healthier, swap out some of the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower. It lightens up the recipe while keeping the texture just as fluffy.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. No matter how you customize them, these cheesy mashed potato puffs will always be a hit!

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