Name: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cold mashed potatoes (unsalted if possible); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese of choice); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt (adjust based on your mashed potatoes); ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth); ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch); 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for brushing); ¼ cup finely chopped cooked beef sausage or turkey; ¼ cup steamed and finely chopped broccoli or spinach

Description

Looking for a creative and mouthwatering way to use up leftover mashed potatoes? These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the answer! Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside—these little puffs are the perfect savory snack or side dish. Ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or a comforting addition to dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Potato Cheese Puffs:

2 cups cold mashed potatoes (unsalted if possible)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese of choice)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt (adjust based on your mashed potatoes)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth)

For Coating & Baking:

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Add-ins:

¼ cup finely chopped cooked beef sausage or turkey
¼ cup steamed and finely chopped broccoli or spinach

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line with silicone cups.

Step 2: Mix the Potato Filling
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, flour, chives, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined into a thick dough-like mixture.

Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)
Fold in any extras like cooked sausage or finely chopped vegetables to customize your puffs.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin
Scoop the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.
Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten the tops for even baking.

Step 5: Top with Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over each puff.
Lightly brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Cheese Puffs
Bake for 20–25 minutes (18–20 minutes for mini muffin tins), until the tops are golden and crisp.
Let them rest in the tin for 5 minutes before removing.

Step 7: Cool & Serve
Carefully lift each puff out and serve warm.
They’re delicious on their own or dipped in ketchup, ranch, or sour cream.

Notes

Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – Helps hold the shape better when baking.
Drain Added Veggies – If using spinach or broccoli, squeeze out excess moisture first.
Don’t Overmix – Just stir enough to combine the ingredients evenly.
Use a Mini Muffin Tin – For bite-sized puffs perfect for parties or kids.
Make Ahead – Prepare the mixture a day ahead and bake fresh when needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American