Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a fun and tasty twist on classic mashed potatoes. They’re golden on the outside, soft and creamy inside, with gooey melted cheese adding that perfect touch of comfort. These little bites are crispy, cheesy, and just the right size for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meal.
I love making these puffs when I want something a bit special but still super easy to throw together. The best part is that you can use leftover mashed potatoes, so nothing goes to waste. I usually sneak in a little garlic or onion powder to give them an extra pop of flavor, and they always disappear fast when I bring them out at parties or family dinners.
For me, these potato puffs are fun to serve with a simple dipping sauce, like sour cream or a tangy ranch dressing, but they’re pretty amazing all on their own. They remind me of cozy nights when everyone gathers around with smiles, grabbing these warm, cheesy bites and chatting until there’s barely a puff left on the plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Using chilled and firm mashed potatoes helps the puffs hold their shape. If you want, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well too for a milder, gooier option. Parmesan adds a nice sharpness—feel free to skip or replace it with Pecorino Romano.
Egg & Flour: The egg acts like a binder to keep everything together. For gluten-free versions, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Butter & Seasonings: Melted butter adds richness. Garlic and onion powders give a gentle flavor boost, but fresh minced garlic or herbs like rosemary can be tasty extras.
How Do You Get Crispy, Golden Edges on Mashed Potato Puffs?
To get those crispy edges and golden tops, the baking process is key. Here’s what works best:
- Preheat your oven fully to 400°F (200°C) so the puffs cook evenly from the start.
- Use a lightly greased muffin tin to prevent sticking but still let the edges crisp.
- Pack the potato mixture firmly into each cup—this helps the puffs hold shape and crisp nicely on the outside.
- Bake 20-25 minutes, checking the color. When you see golden brown tops and edges, they’re ready!
- Let the puffs cool a little before removing—they’ll firm up and become easier to handle.
Following these steps gives you a perfect contrast of crispy outside and tender, cheesy inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Muffin tin – perfect for shaping the puffs and helping them cook evenly with crispy edges.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Spoon or small ice cream scoop – great for portioning the potato mixture into the muffin tin.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts right for the best texture.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot muffin tin when taking the puffs out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky, salty kick that pairs wonderfully with cheese.
- Mix in chopped green onions or chives for fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a touch of spicy heat.
- Stir in finely chopped sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste and extra texture.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Puffs:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled and firm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow a few minutes additionally for cooling, making it roughly a 35-minute total process from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or coat it with non-stick spray to keep the puffs from sticking during baking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your chilled mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, egg, melted butter, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed and the batter holds together when pressed.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each one to the top. Slightly press down to compact the mixture for better shape and texture after baking.
4. Bake Until Golden:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top and crispy edges, which means your puffs are cooked through and just right.
5. Cool, Garnish, and Serve:
Once done, take the puffs out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Carefully lift them from the muffin tin. Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley on top for a fresh, colorful touch. Serve these warm, with your choice of sour cream, ranch, or other favorite dipping sauces.
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly. Just make sure they’re cold and firm to help the puffs hold their shape better during baking.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda. Just keep the quantity the same for the best cheesy flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Potato Puffs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance. Keep the filled tin covered in the fridge and bake within 24 hours for best results.
