Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Easy, Cheesy & Perfect for Leftovers

This delicious and budget-friendly recipe is the ultimate way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. With a crisp golden exterior and gooey cheesy center, these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs make a savory snack, side dish, or appetizer. Bonus: they’re even better the next day!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 puffs (approximately)

Ingredients

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Salt, to taste
• Nonstick spray, for greasing the muffin tin

Optional Substitutions

• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
• Swap in lactose-free cheese and sour cream for a lactose-free option
• Try different cheeses: Gouda, Gruyère, or blue cheese for unique flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sour cream until smooth.
3. Mix in Cheeses and Herbs
   Stir in the shredded cheese, Parmesan (if using), and chopped chives until evenly combined.
4. Fold in Mashed Potatoes
   Gently fold the cold mashed potatoes into the mixture. Mix thoroughly without overworking—keep some texture!
5. Add Flour & Seasoning
   Sprinkle in the flour and a pinch of salt. Stir until just combined. The mixture should be thick but scoopable.
6. Spoon into Muffin Tin
   Divide the mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
7. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown on top.
8. Cool & Serve
   Let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then remove gently. Serve warm with your favorite dip or alongside your main meal.

Tips & Variations

• Use cold mashed potatoes for easier handling and better texture.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for deeper flavor.
• Top with breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
• Serve with sour cream, ranch, or spicy aioli for dipping.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or air fryer for a few minutes until crispy.
• Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen.

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