Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – The Ultimate Comfort Food Snack

There’s something truly satisfying about transforming leftovers into something entirely new and exciting. That’s exactly what inspired me to create these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. After a big dinner, I usually find myself with a container of mashed potatoes sitting in the fridge, and instead of reheating them the same way, I wanted to give them new life. These cheesy puffs are my go-to solution—crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and utterly irresistible. I’ve made them so many times, they’ve become a staple whenever mashed potatoes make an appearance in my kitchen.

You’re going to love this recipe for so many reasons. First, it takes a common leftover that might otherwise go to waste and turns it into a crave-worthy snack or appetizer. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, party platters, or a cozy movie night. The texture contrast—the crunchy golden crust paired with the soft, cheesy interior—is what makes them so addictive. If you love comfort food with a twist, this recipe is definitely for you.

Another great reason to love these mashed potato cheese puffs is how versatile they are. You can season them to match your cravings—add garlic, herbs, or even some finely diced chicken ham or turkey bacon for an extra flavor punch. They also pair wonderfully with dips like sour cream, ranch, or spicy ketchup, so you can mix things up every time you make them.

They’re also incredibly affordable, especially since you’re working with leftovers and simple pantry staples. With a few basic ingredients and a little creativity, you can stretch a small amount of mashed potatoes into a whole new dish that feels intentional and satisfying.

Ingredients for the Recipe:

• 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you prefer)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

• Cooking oil spray or a few tablespoons of neutral oil (for frying or baking)

Whether you choose to bake or pan-fry them, these cheese puffs always turn out delicious. They’re fun to make, satisfying to eat, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your home like they have in mine.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is both quick and satisfying. I usually whip them up whenever I’m staring at a container of cold mashed potatoes and want to avoid wasting food. The preparation process is easy, fun, and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. In just a few steps, you can turn basic leftovers into crispy golden bites of cheesy goodness. These puffs are delicious served warm and can easily be customized to suit your personal flavor preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure your mashed potatoes are cold and firm. This helps the mixture hold its shape. Grate your cheese, chop the green onions, and get the rest of your ingredients ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– 2 cups of cold mashed potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. It should be thick and scoopable. If it feels too sticky, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Then gently flatten them into puck-like shapes. You can keep them round if you prefer a more traditional puff shape.

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each puff in the breadcrumbs until well-coated. This will give them a delicious golden crust when cooked.

Step 5: Choose Your Cooking Method
You can bake or pan-fry these puffs, depending on your preference and time:

To Bake:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
– Arrange the puffs on the sheet, leaving space between each one.
– Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil.
– Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

To Pan-Fry:
– Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
– Add the puffs in batches without overcrowding the pan.
– Fry each side for 3–4 minutes until crispy and golden.
– Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is quick and doesn’t require any special equipment. You can have a batch of warm, crispy cheese puffs ready in less than 30 minutes. The preparation is simple enough for beginners, and cleanup is minimal, which makes it a practical option for busy days.

Customizable

These puffs are endlessly adaptable. You can add finely diced chicken ham or turkey bacon for extra protein, or stir in a spoonful of sour cream for more creaminess. Want a spicy version? Toss in a bit of chili powder or chopped jalapeños. The base recipe is simple, which means it’s easy to build flavor combinations based on what you have.

Popular With Many People

Whether served as party snacks, side dishes, or lunchbox additions, these mashed potato cheese puffs are always a hit. I’ve served them to kids, teens, and adults—everyone loves them. They’re great for gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself to something warm and cheesy. I always get asked for the recipe whenever I bring them to an event.

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FAQs

Can I make these cheese puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can form the cheese puffs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to store them longer, freeze them in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake or pan-fry them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is a favorite because it melts well and adds great flavor. However, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack also work wonderfully. A mix of cheeses can also enhance the richness and depth of flavor.

Can I air-fry the mashed potato puffs instead of baking or frying them?
Absolutely. To air-fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the puffs in a single layer in the basket, and cook for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They turn out crispy and golden with minimal oil.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for coating?
If you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornmeal. You can also use crushed cereal like cornflakes or even finely ground oats. For a low-carb version, almond flour or crushed pork-free rinds are good alternatives.

Do these taste good cold or only warm?
While they’re best served warm and crispy, these puffs also taste great at room temperature. They’re easy to pack and carry, making them ideal for lunchboxes, road trips, or outdoor picnics.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but make sure they are thick and well-set before using. Avoid using overly runny or thin mashed potatoes, as they may not hold their shape when forming the puffs. Adding extra flour can help adjust the consistency.