Do you find yourself staring at a container of leftover mashed potatoes, wondering what to do with them? Instead of letting them go to waste or reheating them for another uninspired meal, why not transform them into something new and exciting? Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect solution! These crispy, cheesy bites are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and an excellent way to breathe new life into your leftovers.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer, these cheese puffs are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Ingredients
To make these irresistible cheese puffs, you’ll need:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional, but adds a fresh flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Additional salt and pepper to taste (if needed)
- 1/4 cup chopped chives (optional garnish)
- Oil for frying (if pan-frying) or cooking spray for baking
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you get started, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature to achieve that golden brown color and crispy texture we’re aiming for. Preheating ensures that the cheese puffs bake evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir well. The eggs act as a binder, helping the cheese puffs hold their shape during cooking.
Gradually fold in the breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will add structure and help create that crispy exterior. The mixture should be firm enough to shape into small balls or patties. If it feels too sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Shape the Cheese Puffs
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls or patties. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate as you go.
Pro Tip: If you want perfectly round puffs, lightly grease your hands with oil before shaping them.
Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
Option A: Baking
For a healthier option, bake the cheese puffs in the preheated oven. Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the cheese puffs on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking. Once they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Option B: Pan-Frying
If you prefer a crispier texture, pan-fry the cheese puffs instead. Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cheese puffs in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the fried cheese puffs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Some great options include sour cream, ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick!
For added freshness and flavor, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top before serving. Pair them with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can turn your leftovers into something extraordinary.
- Customizable: Don’t have cheddar cheese? Swap it out for mozzarella or any other cheese you love! Want more spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the mix.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is all about making the most of what you already have in your kitchen—no need for fancy ingredients!
- Kid-Approved: Kids love these cheesy bites, making them a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients if you’ve added veggies to your mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are proof that leftovers don’t have to be boring! With their crispy exterior, gooey cheesy center, and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
So next time you have leftover mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge, don’t toss them out—give this recipe a try instead! Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.
Happy cooking!
Print
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
- Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the eggs and breadcrumbs to the potato mixture. Stir until fully combined and the mixture holds together.
Using a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into small balls or scoops and place them into the prepared muffin tin or onto the baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Optionally, garnish with extra chopped chives.
Notes
You can add cooked bacon bits or a pinch of paprika for a smoky flavor. These can also be air-fried at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
