Name: Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for Easy Snacking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes (Or store-bought mashed potatoes); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or mozzarella recommended); ½ cup Flour (Gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version); 1 large Egg (Flaxseed egg can be used for a vegan option); to taste Seasonings (Garlic powder, salt, or pepper); 1 cup Dipping Sauces (Sour cream or ranch)

“Leftovers? Yes, please!” That’s the rallying cry echoed in kitchens across the land, and I can’t help but cheer along. Enter my Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs—our favorite way to transform those humble remnants into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece. With just a handful of ingredients, these delightful puffs have quickly become a family favorite, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying as a light snack. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they also embody that comfort-food essence we all crave, seamlessly turning yesterday’s dinner into today’s crispy delight. Excited to give your leftovers a delicious makeover? Let’s dive into this easy, adaptable recipe that’s bound to impress!

Why Make Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs?

Transformative: These puffs turn ordinary leftovers into extraordinary treats, making them a fun and creative solution for using up mashed potatoes.

Customizable: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add herbs and diced veggies, like spinach or green onions, to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.

Easy & Quick: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a crispy, cheesy snack ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for any day of the week!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served at parties or enjoyed alone, these puffs are sure to garner rave reviews from family and friends. Serve them warm with a side of sour cream or ranch for an irresistible appetizer.

Healthy Twist: Baking instead of frying means a lighter, healthier version of your favorite snack—enjoy the guilty pleasure without the guilt!

Ready to explore more delicious yet effortless recipes? Check out my Lemon Cream Cheese and Sweet Potato Chickpea for more inspiration!

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

The perfect way to use up those delicious leftovers!

For the Puff Mixture

Leftover Mashed Potatoes – Base ingredient providing flavor and moisture; if unavailable, use store-bought mashed potatoes.
Shredded Cheese – Adds richness and cheesiness; try cheddar or mozzarella for a classic touch.
Flour – Provides structure and binding; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Egg – Binds the mixture and adds moisture; substitute with a flaxseed egg for a vegan-friendly option.
Seasonings – Enhances flavor; customize with garlic powder, salt, or pepper to suit your tastes.

For Serving

Dipping Sauces – Serve with sour cream or ranch for extra flavor; feel free to experiment with spicy aioli for a kick!

Ready to whip up these delightful Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs? Let’s keep the good times rolling!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure that your Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs bake evenly, resulting in that perfectly crisp exterior. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, including a large mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, and your choice of seasonings, such as garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything together until it forms a smooth, cohesive mixture. Take a moment to admire the cheesy goodness that’s about to become your delightful puffs!

Step 3: Shape the Puffs
With your mixture ready, scoop out golf ball-sized portions of the mixture using your hands or a cookie scoop. Gently roll each scoop into a ball and place it on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each puff to allow for even cooking and puffing up in the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs
Once all your puffs are shaped and on the baking sheet, slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden hue and give off a delicious, cheesy aroma that wafts through your kitchen.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period will help them set. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or sour cream, and watch them disappear in a flash!

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Fridge: Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked puffs arranged on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: To reheat, bake leftover puffs at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crispy exterior and warms them through.

Make-Ahead: Shape the puffs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a perfect strategy for effortless entertaining!

What to Serve with Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

These crispy, cheesy delights are the perfect base for creating a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the puffs, adding freshness to the plate.
Garlic Aioli: This creamy, flavorful dip enhances the cheesy puffs and adds a delightful garlicky kick.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets provide a pop of color and nutritious crunch that complements the creamy texture of the puffs beautifully.
Sour Cream: A classic accompaniment, its coolness and tanginess contrast nicely with the warm, crispy puffs.
Spicy Chili Sauce: For those who crave heat, a drizzle of spicy chili sauce boosts the flavor profile and adds excitement to each bite.
Mini Quiches: Pairing these puffs with cheesy mini quiches creates a delightful variety of textures and flavors, perfect for brunch or a snack platter.
Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc refreshes the palate and complements the cheesy flavors without overwhelming them. Enjoy with family or friends for a cozy gathering.
Fruit Chutney: A spoonful of sweet and tangy fruit chutney cuts through the richness of the puffs and adds a colorful twist to your plate.

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puff Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful puffs to match your personal taste and dietary preferences!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or substitute pepper jack cheese for a fiery twist that will awaken your taste buds. Feeling adventurous? You could even try mixing in a hint of hot sauce for an extra zing!
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme into the mixture. The freshness of the herbs brightens up the flavor, making each bite feel like a garden party on your palate.
Veggie Lovers: Toss in finely chopped veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. It not only amps up the nutrition but also adds a beautiful splash of color to your puffs.
Cheesy Bliss: Explore different cheese options like feta, gouda, or fontina for varied flavors that can transform your puffs into gourmet bites. Each cheese brings its own unique personality and richness.
Plant-Based: Use vegan cheese and substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg to make a completely vegan version. It’s amazing how simple swaps can make these puffs inclusive for everyone at the table!
Texture Boost: For added crunch, mix in a handful of breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes before baking. This creates an alluring crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy center.
Garlic Lovers: Mix in garlic powder or roasted garlic to the potato mixture for a delightful aroma and flavor explosion. There’s something irresistibly comforting about garlic that makes every dish special!

Feeling inspired? With these variations, you can take your Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs to the next level. And if you’re looking for more tasty ideas, don’t miss out on my Blueberry Cream Cheese or Cottage Cheese Chickpea for delicious ways to bring creativity to your kitchen!

Helpful Tricks for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Smooth Potatoes Matter: Ensure your leftover mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps for a uniform texture in the puffs.
Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack to customize the flavor profile of your Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.
Watch the Time: Avoid overbaking! Keep an eye on your puffs in the oven; once they turn golden brown, they’re ready to come out for that perfect crispiness.
Customize Your Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add diced vegetables or herbs to the mixture before baking. Spinach or green onions can enhance both flavor and nutrition!
Freezing Tips: If making ahead, shape the puffs and freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be prepped ahead for ultimate convenience! You can shape the puffs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply place uncooked puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then cover with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. If you’d like to prepare them even further in advance, freeze the shaped puffs for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade snacks or sides ready at a moment’s notice!

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results, use smooth, creamy leftover mashed potatoes without lumps, which helps ensure a uniform texture in your puffs. If you don’t have any leftovers, store-bought mashed potatoes are a great substitute and will save time!

What’s the best way to store leftover puffs?
To keep your leftover puffs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze the uncooked puffs. Arrange them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag where they can last up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the puffs after baking?
Definitely! While the texture is best preserved when you freeze raw puffs, you can freeze the baked ones too. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last for about 2-3 months this way. To reheat, simply bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

What should I do if my puffs aren’t crispy after baking?
Very! If you find your puffs aren’t crispy enough, consider a couple of things: ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking, and pay attention to baking time. If they look golden brown but still feel soft, give them a few extra minutes in the oven to achieve that perfect crispiness on the outside.

Are these puffs suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily modify these Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs to fit dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular flour with gluten-free flour. If you’re making these puffs vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for binding, while ensuring the cheese used is vegan-friendly.

Can you add different flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! The beauty of these puffs lies in their adaptability. Feel free to mix in various cheeses for different flavor notes; sharp cheddar or pepper jack give exciting twists. You can also add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or green onions to elevate both taste and nutrition—get creative and taste as you go!