Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

If you have ever wished for a snack that combines the comforting creaminess of mashed potatoes with the irresistible crunch of a golden crust, then you are in for a treat. This Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe takes simple leftover mashed potatoes and transforms them into bite-sized jewels of cheesy, crispy goodness. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish, these puffs bring together fluffy interiors and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior that will leave everyone asking for more. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your new go-to for elevating leftover potatoes!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes these puffs so memorable. From sharp cheddar cheese lending richness to the crunchy breadcrumbs sealing it all together, these components are both pantry-friendly and essential.

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: The creamy base of the puffs, providing moisture and softness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty cheese flavor that complements the potatoes superbly.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients firmly together.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the puffs and helps absorb any excess moisture.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite more delicious.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Imparts a subtle savory depth that enriches the overall taste.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Essential for the irresistibly crispy crust that surrounds each puff.

How to Make Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the puffs can bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown exterior right away.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until you have a cohesive mixture that’s easy to shape but still moist and cheesy.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. The uniform size helps them cook evenly and makes for the perfect finger food size, inviting you to grab one after another.

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until it’s fully coated. This step is the secret to achieving that coveted crispy texture once baked. Don’t be shy about getting each puff well covered.

Step 5: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart so they don’t stick together as they bake. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crisp on the outside.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked, serve your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs warm for the best flavor and texture experience. They’re irresistible when fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your puffs with garnishes like finely chopped fresh chives, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or even a dusting of Parmesan cheese. These simple touches add color and an extra layer of flavor that delights the senses.

Side Dishes

These puffs make a fantastic accompaniment to a fresh green salad, a tangy tomato salsa, or even a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli. They can easily complement a variety of main dishes or serve as the star of a snack platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party presentation, serve the puffs on a wooden board with an array of colorful dipping sauces in small bowls. You can also skewer a few on cocktail sticks with cherry tomatoes or olives for an elegant appetizer that’s easy to share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days and can be enjoyed as a quick snack any time.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked puffs by arranging them on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. This allows you to bake fresh puffs whenever cravings strike. Frozen puffs are best used within a month.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the puffs into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crisp exterior while warming the cheesy inside beautifully. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! Freshly made mashed potatoes work just fine, but be sure they’re cooled to prevent the mixture from becoming too sticky. The texture might be slightly softer, so adjust the flour if needed to help hold the puffs together.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic for its melty texture and bold flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend to vary the taste and gooeyness of the puffs.

Is it possible to make these puffs gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way you keep the flavor and texture intact without compromising dietary needs.

Can I bake these puffs in an air fryer?

Definitely! Air frying will give you a crispy exterior in less time, so check your puffs after about 12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to avoid overcooking. You’ll love how crispy and light they turn out.

How do I prevent the puffs from falling apart?

Using eggs and flour as binders is key. Also, avoid adding too much moisture. If the mixture feels too wet, add a touch more flour. Coating the puffs thoroughly with breadcrumbs also helps hold everything snugly during baking.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe is such a joyful experience; it turns simple leftovers into a crowd-pleasing delight that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re whipping these up for a casual snack or a special gathering, they deliver on comfort, crunch, and cheesy goodness every single time. I truly hope you give this recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug with every crispy bite!

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

These Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful appetizer or snack made from leftover mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. Baked to golden perfection, they are easy to prepare and perfect for serving warm at gatherings or as a comforting treat.

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Ingredients

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Mashed Potato Mixture

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Coating

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the puffs to a crispy golden brown.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
3. Shape the Puffs: Using your hands, shape the mashed potato mixture into small, bite-sized balls or puffs to ensure even cooking.
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each shaped ball in the cup of breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully and evenly coated to create a crispy outer layer once baked.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breadcrumb-coated puffs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space them apart to allow for even baking and crisping.
6. Bake: Bake the puffs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the cheese puffs warm for best taste and texture.

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Notes

• Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for best consistency.
• For extra crispiness, you can spray the puffs lightly with cooking oil before baking.
• Feel free to add herbs like chives or parsley to the mixture for added flavor.
• These puffs can be served with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo.
• Store leftover puffs in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.