Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Lora Lopez

Posted on July 24, 2025

Are you on the lookout for a scrumptious snack or appetizer that combines comfort food with cheesy goodness? Look no further! Our Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect solution. These delightful bites are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With a crispy exterior and a gooey cheese center, they’re a hit for any occasion, whether it be a casual family gathering or a fancy soirée. You can fry or bake them, making them versatile to suit your cooking preferences. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes from dinner, ensuring nothing goes to waste. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best parts about Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is their adaptability. You can customize them with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or even leftover vegetables. Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation and ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. In just a few simple steps, you can have a plate full of delicious puffs ready to serve.
Kid-Friendly: Children love these cheesy bites! They are ideal for picky eaters and can be served as a fun finger food. You can even involve your kids in the making process, shaping the puffs together as a family activity.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair them with your favorite dips such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for an extra flavor punch.
Perfect for Leftovers: Have some leftover mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge? This recipe is the ideal way to transform them into something new and exciting. It’s a great way to reduce food waste while indulging in a tasty treat.
Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheese in every bite makes these puffs irresistible. Choose your favorite cheese, whether it be cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out new recipes is always an adventure, and with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, you’ll embark on a culinary journey that’s both fun and rewarding. Here’s why you should make these delicious puffs:

Impressive Presentation: They look as good as they taste! The golden-brown color and crispy texture make them a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests.
Healthier Option: By baking instead of frying, you can make a healthier version without sacrificing taste. Control the ingredients and portion sizes to suit your dietary preferences.
Great for Meal Prep: These puffs are freezable! Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick snack later. Just pop them in the oven or fryer when you’re ready to enjoy.
Fun Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding herbs, spices, or even bacon bits. The possibilities are endless! Try adding some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these puffs fit right in. They can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, making them great for parties.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients and utensils to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)

Recommended Utensils:

Large mixing bowl
Skillet or baking sheet
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or spatula for mixing
Paper towels for draining (if frying)
Cookie scoop or tablespoon for shaping

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making our Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Follow these detailed instructions for the best results:

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, peel and boil about 2 large potatoes until they’re tender. Drain and mash them in a bowl, letting them cool slightly before using.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, eggs, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture should be thick but not dry.
Form Puffs: Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a ball or a small patty. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat. If you’re opting for baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Fry or Bake:
- For frying: Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle), carefully add the potato puffs in batches. Fry until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- For baking: Place the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Serve: Allow the cheese puffs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious snack or appetizer!

FAQs

Can I freeze Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the cheese puffs before frying or baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Just fry or bake them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!

What types of cheese work best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a unique flavor. Feel free to mix different cheeses for an extra cheesy bite!

Can I make these puffs without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. To do this, mix one tablespoon of either seed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

What can I serve with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

These puffs pair perfectly with various dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli. They also make a great side dish for soups or salads.

How long do these cheese puffs last in the fridge?

You can store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful fusion of comfort food and culinary creativity. They offer a fantastic way to utilize leftover mashed potatoes while satisfying your cheesy cravings. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these puffs will surely become a staple in your snack repertoire. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite. If you loved making these cheese puffs, don’t forget to comment below, share this article with friends, or try out other delicious recipes on our blog!

For more tasty recipes, check out our Creamy Potato Soup recipe!