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These mashed potato cheese puffs are my go to answer for leftover mashed potatoes when I want something fun and comforting. Crisp on the outside and creamy inside they are bite sized magic for parties or when you just crave a cheesy snack. I tried these for a family game night and everyone had a favorite dip ready before they even came out of the oven.
My family loves how simple these are to whip up and every time I pull them from the oven they disappear before I even put the tray down. You can switch up the cheese and coatings for endless variations.
Ingredients
- Mashed potatoes: Essential for the creamy base Go with leftovers but if making fresh choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest result
- Cheddar cheese: The classic melt and rich flavor You can use sharp for punchiness or mild for a creamier taste Grate it yourself for the best melt
- Eggs: Help bind everything so the puffs hold their shape Use large eggs for consistency
- All purpose flour: Gives the puffs structure Sift your flour if it looks clumpy
- Salt: Brings out the flavors Taste your mashed potatoes ahead in case they are already salted
- Black pepper: Balances the cheesy richness Fresh cracked pepper delivers the best flavor
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and a savory kick Look for garlic powder that is fragrant with no clumps
- Breadcrumbs: Delivers that golden crisp Try panko for extra crunch Use fresh or dried
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper This helps the puffs cook evenly and prevents sticking
- Mix the Potato Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the mashed potatoes cheddar cheese eggs all purpose flour salt black pepper and garlic powder Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and no dry spots remain This step is key for achieving that creamy inside
- Shape the Puffs:
- Scoop out the potato mixture using your hands or a small scoop and gently roll into balls about the size of a golf ball Aim for roughly even sizes so they cook uniformly
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Place your breadcrumbs in a shallow dish Roll each potato ball gently in the breadcrumbs making sure every surface is evenly covered This coating creates the classic crunch
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Space out the puffs on your prepared baking sheet giving each one a little room Crispiness depends on airflow so do not crowd them
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the tray in your preheated oven Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes checking after 18 minutes The puffs should be deeply golden and crisp on the outside
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving This helps them firm up and makes them easier to pick up Serve warm with your favorite dip
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I am obsessed with trying all kinds of cheese in these but cheddar always wins for my youngest It is one of those snacks that quickly became a family legend Everyone races for the crispiest one
Storage Tips
Keep leftover puffs in an airtight container once cooled Pop them in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes They will crisp right back up Avoid microwaving as the texture softens
Substitution Ideas
No cheddar on hand Use mozzarella gouda or a cheese blend For a smoky hit smoked gouda is my secret swap Gluten free crumbs and flour swap right in The recipe also takes well to grated cooked veggies or even a sprinkle of cooked bacon for something heartier
Best Ways to Serve
Serve these hot with sour cream or ranch and a dash of fresh chives They are a hit on appetizer trays Try them with warm marinara or a cilantro yogurt sauce too Sometimes I pop a few on top of a green salad for a playful lunch
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A Bit of Story
Mashed potato puffs remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen lined up on a cooling rack as we snuck tastes before dinner They are a charming riff on classic American comfort food turning leftovers into something new and exciting
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or a cheese blend for different flavors and textures.
- → How do I make the puffs extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs for the coating or bake the puffs a few extra minutes for additional crunch.
- → Are these suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make them gluten-free, replace flour and breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free alternatives.
- → Can I prepare the puffs ahead of time?
The puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
- → What dipping sauces go well with these puffs?
Try serving with sour cream, ranch, spicy ketchup, or garlic aioli for added flavor.