Golden Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: A Comforting Snack or Side 🥔🧀
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something truly magical with these Golden Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these little bites are bursting with the comforting flavors of cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to repurpose leftovers or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is a winner. Perfect as a side dish for dinner, a party appetizer, or a cozy treat on a Saturday afternoon like today—May 24, 2025—these puffs are easy to make and guaranteed to delight. Let’s get baking and turn simple ingredients into golden, cheesy perfection!
Ingredients (Makes 12 Puffs, Serves 4-6)
For the Cheese Puffs:
- 2 cups (500 g) mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made, cooled slightly)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, or substitute with 1 teaspoon dried chives)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste (adjust if your mashed potatoes are already seasoned)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- ¼ cup (30 g) breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping—panko works great for extra crispiness)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor
For Greasing:
- Non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of butter
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for dipping
- Extra chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
- Hot sauce or ketchup, for a tangy kick
Equipment Needed
- Standard muffin tin (12-cup)
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (optional, if making freeform puffs)
- Parchment paper or paper muffin liners (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking. Alternatively, line the muffin tin with paper liners for easier cleanup. If you prefer freeform puffs, you can also use a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Mix the Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, lightly beaten egg, chopped chives (if using), salt, and pepper. If you’d like a bit more depth of flavor, add garlic powder or onion powder at this stage. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and cohesive, perfect for scooping. If your mashed potatoes are very wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. This allows room for the puffs to rise and puff up beautifully. If using breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping, sprinkle a small amount over each puff, pressing lightly to help them adhere.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown on top and slightly crisp around the edges. They should puff up slightly and have a firm, set texture. If you’d like an extra crispy top, you can broil the puffs for the last 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes—this helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove. Gently transfer the puffs to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped chives or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetable soup for a comforting meal. They also make a fantastic appetizer or snack for gatherings—set them out with a variety of dips and watch them disappear. For a fun brunch idea, pair them with scrambled eggs and a fresh green salad. They’re best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but they’re just as delicious at room temperature for a grab-and-go treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Puff, Based on 12 Puffs)
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal
- Protein: 5 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the type of mashed potatoes and cheese used.
TimeゆるBreakdown
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Baking: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30–35 minutes
Tips for Success
- Use Cold or Room-Temperature Potatoes: If using freshly made mashed potatoes, let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle and don’t cook the egg when mixing.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Crunchy Top: The breadcrumbs are optional but highly recommended for a crispy contrast. Panko breadcrumbs give an extra-light texture.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely for a gluten-free version.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Variations to Try
- Bacon and Cheddar Puffs: Add ¼ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
- Herby Delight: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic boost.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Loaded Potato Style: Top each puff with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and extra chives for a loaded baked potato vibe.
- Mini Puffs: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized puffs, reducing the baking time to 15–18 minutes—perfect for parties!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food—simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. They’re a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning them into a snack or side that feels like a treat. With minimal prep and a quick bake time, they’re perfect for a busy day like today, May 24, 2025, when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable, so you can make them your own with your favorite flavors and add-ins.
Share Your Cheesy Creations!
We’d love to see how your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs turned out! Snap a photo of your golden, cheesy puffs and share it on social media with our tag. Have a creative variation or a favorite dipping sauce? Drop it in the comments below—we’re always excited to hear how you put your spin on this recipe!
