Got leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge? Don’t let them go to waste. These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect way to turn yesterday’s side dish into today’s star snack. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, they’re baked—not fried—making them a lighter option for your next appetizer or side dish.
Whether you’re serving them for a party, an after-school snack, or alongside dinner, these bite-sized puffs deliver comfort and flavor in every golden-brown bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smart use of leftovers – Great way to repurpose mashed potatoes into something exciting.
- Easy to customize – Switch up the cheese or add herbs for your own twist.
- Baked, not fried – Crispy texture without deep-frying.
- Kid-friendly – A fun finger food that’s cheesy and satisfying.
- Make-ahead friendly – Mix and roll ahead of time, then bake when needed.
Time Commitment
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
What You’ll Need
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended and holds together.
3. Shape the Puffs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.
4. Coat in Breadcrumbs
Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step ensures a crisp, golden exterior after baking.
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the coated puffs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them plain or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli all work beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Per puff (approx. 1 of 20):
- Calories: 85
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.5g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on standard ingredients.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Options: Mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheddar blend can add variety.
- Herb It Up: Add chopped parsley, chives, or dill for an herby touch.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, mix in some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and GF panko.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Roll and coat the puffs, then refrigerate until ready to bake—up to 24 hours in advance.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
These crispy puffs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a quick snack for the family, here are some delicious serving ideas:
As an Appetizer
Set them out on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing starter. Try serving them with:
- Sour cream and chive dip
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
As a Side Dish
Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or soups for a comforting and complete meal. They pair especially well with:
- Baked chicken or turkey
- BBQ pulled pork
- Creamy tomato soup
- Roasted carrots or asparagus
As a Snack
Enjoy them on their own for a satisfying afternoon or late-night bite. They’re filling enough to stand alone and easy to grab from the fridge and reheat when needed.
As Party Finger Food
Mini versions of these puffs make an excellent finger food option for holiday parties, game nights, or potlucks. Make them bite-sized and offer toothpicks or mini skewers for easy serving.
Topped or Stuffed
Get creative by adding toppings or even stuffing them before baking:
- Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or extra cheese before baking for added richness.
- Stuff each puff with a small cube of cheese for a gooey, melty center surprise.
- Top with chopped herbs and a drizzle of truffle oil for an upscale twist.
Final Thoughts
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a crowd-pleasing way to transform humble leftovers into crispy, cheesy bites that disappear fast. With simple prep and familiar ingredients, they’re a great go-to recipe for anyone looking to minimize food waste while maximizing flavor.
Perfectly golden and irresistibly tasty, these puffs may just become a staple in your leftover makeover routine.
