Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: herbs like chives or parsley

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into delightful cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. This quick and easy snack or appetizer is perfect for using up leftovers in a tasty way.

The image shows four golden brown baked potato bites on a white plate. Each bite has a textured, crispy top layer of melted cheese that is slightly browned and bubbly, with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. The potato base beneath looks soft and creamy, with hints of light yellow and white. The plate is set on a clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: herbs like chives or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Scoop portions of the mixture with your hands and shape them into small balls or patties about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the puffs for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Remove from the oven and let the cheese puffs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best cheesy flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add finely chopped cooked bacon or garlic powder to the mixture.
Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda for a unique twist.
If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more flour to help with shaping.
Serve with sour cream or a spicy dipping sauce for added taste.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows four golden-brown baked potato puffs on a white plate, each puff having a crisp, crunchy top with melted cheese, and sprinkled with small bits of chopped green herbs. The outside looks textured and slightly crispy, while the inside appears soft and creamy. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface, providing a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, fresh mashed potatoes will work, but be sure they are well-seasoned and not too watery to help the puffs hold their shape.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely. Freeze the shaped puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.