These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are golden and crispy on the outside with a soft, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth center. Made with chilled mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives, they’re baked to perfection in a muffin pan for an easy, mess-free treat. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these puffs are a delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something irresistible.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Anyone looking for creative leftover mashed potato ideas
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Party hosts needing an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer
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Families searching for kid-friendly comfort food
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Cheese lovers who enjoy crispy baked snacks
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Home cooks who want a quick side dish with minimal prep
Why It’s Great
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Crispy & Cheesy: The perfect texture contrast in every bite
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Baked, Not Fried: Lighter but still indulgent
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Great for Leftovers: Ideal for using extra mashed potatoes
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Versatile: Works as an appetizer, snack, or side
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to reheat and serve later
Ingredients
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3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 large egg
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¼ cup chopped chives
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Cooking spray or butter, for greasing
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Mini muffin pan
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Cookie scoop or hands for shaping
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Oven
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a mini muffin pan with butter or cooking spray.
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In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Add the egg and mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Scoop or roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy outer layer.
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Place each coated ball into the prepared muffin pan, gently pressing to fit the mold.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crisp.
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Allow the puffs to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze baked puffs for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed and crispy. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
FAQ
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Mozzarella, Gruyère, or a cheese blend work beautifully.
Do mashed potatoes need to be chilled?
Yes, chilled mashed potatoes hold their shape better and create crispier puffs.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake them ahead and reheat just before serving.
How do I add extra flavor?
Try paprika, cayenne pepper, or cooked bacon bits mixed into the potatoes.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort-food upgrade—crispy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re entertaining guests, feeding your family, or repurposing leftovers, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. One bite, and they’ll disappear fast.
