Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3 cups mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chives; 1/3 cup sour cream; Salt to taste; 2 eggs (beaten)

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Do you have leftover mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner? Turn them into a delectable new dish with our Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. These cheesy, crispy Savory Potato Snacks are a fantastic way to give new life to those extra mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a delightful side dish, or a savory snack, these cheese puffs fit the bill perfectly. Serve them alongside roasted meats or enjoy them on their own as a delightful finger food.

Why You’ll Love Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are standout Savory Potato Snacks:

Crispy & Cheesy: Golden crust with a gooey, cheesy center.
Easy Prep: Simple ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack for any occasion.
Waste-Free: Repurposes leftovers into a crowd-pleasing treat.
I make these Savory Potato Snacks for family gatherings, and they’re always a hit!

Ingredients for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Here’s what you’ll need for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs (makes 12 puffs):

3 cups leftover mashed potatoes (cold)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
⅓ cup sour cream
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
2 large eggs, beaten

Ingredient Tips:

Mashed Potatoes: Cold, thick leftovers work best; avoid runny textures.
Cheese: Cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretchiness; mix for variety.
Flour: All-purpose to bind; use sparingly to keep puffs light.
Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess; Greek yogurt as a substitute.
Chives: Fresh for bright flavor; dried chives or green onions work too.

Directions for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Let’s create these delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!

Preheat Oven

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Mix Wet Base

In a large mixing bowl, I beat 2 eggs, then stir in ⅓ cup sour cream until smooth and well combined.

Add Cheese and Seasonings

I mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar, 2 tbsp Parmesan, 2 tbsp chives, and ½ tsp salt, ensuring even distribution for balanced flavor.

Combine with Potatoes

I fold in 3 cups cold mashed potatoes and ¼ cup flour, mixing gently until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky, with no dry streaks.

Fill Muffin Tin

I spoon the mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup to the top and pressing lightly to ensure even baking.

Bake

I bake for 20–25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and puffed up. I check for a crispy exterior and set center.

Cool and Serve

I let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack or platter. I serve warm with a garnish of chives or Parmesan.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 12 puffs
Calories: ~150 kcal per puff
Macros per Puff: 10g carbs, 5g protein, 7g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Try these twists on Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs:

Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or diced jalapeños for a bold Savory Potato Snacks twist.
Bacon Bits: Mix in ¼ cup crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
Herb Boost: Swap chives for rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Different Cheese: Use Gouda, Swiss, or a cheese blend for variety.
Mini Puffs: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized appetizers, baking for 15–18 minutes.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ McGriddle Muffins for a hearty brunch spread.
Serve with ranch, spicy aioli, or sour cream dip for fun Savory Potato Snacks.
Accompany with roasted chicken or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Arrange on a platter with extra chives for a rustic, inviting presentation.

Storage

I store Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, I cool the puffs completely, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat refrigerated puffs, I bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–10 minutes; for frozen, I bake for 10–15 minutes. I avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and let puffs cool fully before sealing to maintain crispiness. For prep-ahead, I mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.

FAQs About Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you don’t have any homemade leftovers. Just make sure they are well-seasoned and have a thick consistency. You might need to adjust the amount of flour to achieve the right texture.

What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar and mozzarella?
You can use a variety of cheeses depending on your taste preferences. Gouda, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses will work well. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor.

Can I make these cheese puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the puffs and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat them in the oven before serving to restore their crispiness.

How can I make these puffs gluten-free?
To make these puffs gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your mashed potatoes and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This will maintain the texture and taste while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Can I add meat or veggies to the mixture?
Yes, you can fold in small amounts of cooked bacon, ham, or finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and texture, keeping the mixture thick enough to hold shape.

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Conclusion

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and versatile way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re easy to make and sure to please. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.