Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs 🧀🥔
Is there anything more comforting than a big scoop of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes? They’re the ultimate side dish—rich, smooth, and oh-so-satisfying. But let’s be honest, sometimes they can get a little… repetitive.
That’s where these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs come in! Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with melty pockets of cheese in every bite, these little puffs turn ordinary mashed potatoes into something irresistible.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers, whip up a fun appetizer, or serve a unique side dish, these potato puffs are guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love These Potato Puffs
✔️ Perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes
✔️ Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
✔️ Great as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer
✔️ Quick & easy – ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
🥚 3 eggs, beaten
🥔 2 cups mashed potatoes (at room temperature)
🧀 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
🌿 ¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
🥄 Sour cream for serving (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
🔥 Preheat your oven to 400°F.
🧈 Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin and set it aside.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
🥣 In a large bowl, whisk together:
✔️ Mashed potatoes
✔️ Beaten eggs
✔️ ¾ cup shredded cheese
✔️ Chopped chives
🧂 Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Fill the Muffin Tin
🥄 Use a small scoop or spoon to fill each mini muffin cup nearly to the top.
🧀 Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese over each puff.
4️⃣ Bake Until Golden
⏲️ Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown, crispy on the edges, and set in the center.
5️⃣ Cool & Serve
🛑 Let the puffs rest for 5 minutes before removing them from the tin.
🌿 Garnish with extra chopped chives and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
🥳 Enjoy these warm, cheesy bites fresh out of the oven!
Tips for the Best Potato Puffs
✔️ Use room temperature mashed potatoes – Cold potatoes can make mixing difficult.
✔️ Avoid overmixing – Overworking the batter can make the puffs dense and gummy.
✔️ For extra crispiness, use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini one.
✔️ Bake on the lower rack for better browning.
✔️ Let them rest for 5 minutes before removing from the pan—this helps them hold their shape!
Fun Variations 🎭
🔥 Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🥓 Bacon Lover’s – Stir in crispy bacon bits or diced ham.
🧄 Savory Boost – Sautéed onions, garlic, or shallots add depth.
🥦 Veggie Twist – Mix in chopped broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
🧂 Seasoning Upgrade – Try everything bagel seasoning or ranch mix for extra flavor!
FAQs
❓ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
❓ How do I reheat leftover puffs?
For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
❓ Can I freeze potato puffs?
Absolutely! Freeze baked and cooled puffs on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
❓ What can I serve with potato puffs?
These are great as a side with roasted chicken, steak, pork chops, or meatloaf. They also make a fun appetizer for parties with dipping sauces!
Serving Suggestions
These crispy, cheesy potato bites are perfect for any occasion!
🥳 For a party appetizer – Serve with dipping sauces like:
✔️ Ranch dressing
✔️ Marinara sauce
✔️ Queso or nacho cheese
✔️ Spicy jalapeño ranch
🍽️ For a full meal – Pair with:
✔️ Roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops
✔️ Turkey meatloaf
✔️ A warm bowl of chili or beef stew
Try These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Today!
Whether you’re using up leftovers or making a fun party snack, these crispy, cheesy mashed potato puffs are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Once you try them, you’ll never let leftover mashed potatoes go to waste again! 😍🥔🧀