If you’re craving a snack that’s both comforting and crispy, look no further than these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. This recipe takes simple mashed potatoes and transforms them into golden, crunchy puffs filled with melted cheese, perfect as a snack or side dish. Easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and boasting a delightful texture, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs bring a cozy, homemade touch to your table with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Crispy Texture: Achieve a perfect golden crust that crunches on the outside while staying soft inside.
Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry items to turn basic mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat.
Versatile Snack or Side: Great for quick snacks, appetizer platters, or a side dish to complement your meals.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it an effortless crowd-pleaser.
Customizable: Easy to tweak by adding herbs, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient plays a starring role in creating these delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. Each component is straightforward but essential, bringing out the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.

Mashed Potatoes: Use smooth, well-seasoned potatoes as the base for a creamy interior.
Shredded Cheese: Choose a melty cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for oozy, cheesy goodness.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold your puffs together during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Provides that sought-after crunchy, golden exterior.
Butter or Oil: For frying or baking to add richness and help crisp the puffs.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Optional Herbs and Spices: Add parsley, garlic powder, or paprika for extra flavor layers.

Variations for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

One of the best things about Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is how simple they are to customize. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences.

Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped rosemary, chives, or thyme for aromatic notes.
Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or feta for new flavor profiles.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in finely grated carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Prepare Smooth Mashed Potatoes

Start with well-cooked and peeled potatoes. Mash them thoroughly until silken smooth, making sure there are no lumps left. Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like to infuse the potatoes with flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Mix in Cheese and Bindings

Once your mashed potatoes are ready, fold in the shredded cheese and beaten egg. The egg will help bind the mixture and hold the puffs together, while the cheese adds that molten, savory center.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Use a spoon or your hands to scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small, bite-sized balls or ovals. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll each potato puff in breadcrumbs, ensuring a thorough and even coating. This step guarantees that irresistible golden crust once cooked.

Step 5: Cook Until Crispy

Fry the puffs in hot butter or oil until browned on all sides for that crunchy exterior, or bake them on a lined tray for a lighter option. Cooking time will typically range from 15-20 minutes depending on the method.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Use Day-Old Potatoes: Mash leftovers from cooked potatoes for better texture and ease.
Don’t Skip the Egg: The egg is crucial for keeping the puffs intact without falling apart during cooking.
Press Gently: Don’t compact the potato mixture too tightly to keep the interior light and fluffy.
Consistent Size: Shape all puffs about the same size to avoid uneven cooking.
Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place puffs on paper towels to remove excess oil for a less greasy finish.

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a beautiful pop of green and a fresh taste that contrasts perfectly with the rich puffs.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a vibrant salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness, or add a dollop of sour cream or spicy ketchup for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the puffs on a platter with assorted dips for a party-ready appetizer, or stack them alongside a hearty soup for a satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked puffs by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen for convenience later.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven or air fryer to preserve their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

While homemade mashed potatoes provide the best texture, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch if prepared well and allowed to cool before shaping.

Is frying the only way to cook these puffs?

No, baking or air frying are excellent alternatives that produce crispy results with less oil, making them healthier and easier to prepare.

What types of cheese work best?

Cheeses that melt well like cheddar, mozzarella, Colby, or Monterey Jack are ideal for the gooey center, but feel free to mix cheeses to your liking.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or alternatives like crushed nuts or gluten-free crackers for coating.

How can I make these puffs ahead for a party?

Shape and coat the puffs in advance, then refrigerate or freeze them. Cook right before serving to keep them crispy and fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful way to elevate simple mashed potatoes into a crunchy, melty treat everyone will adore. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or just a cozy snack moment, this recipe makes comfort food shine with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch these little golden bites disappear fast!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Print Recipe

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are golden, crispy snacks made from smooth mashed potatoes mixed with melted cheese and bound with egg, coated in breadcrumbs, then baked or fried to perfection. These versatile puffs serve as delightful appetizers, snacks, or side dishes featuring a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior.

Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: About 20-24 puffs 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 cups smooth, well-seasoned mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

2–3 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying) or as needed for baking

Optional Herbs and Spices

1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives, as desired

Variations (Optional)

Diced jalapeños or pinch of cayenne (for a spicy twist)
Finely grated carrots or spinach (for added nutrition and color)
Different cheeses such as pepper jack, gouda, or feta
Gluten-free coating alternatives: crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour

Instructions

Prepare Smooth Mashed Potatoes: Start with well-cooked and peeled potatoes. Mash them thoroughly until silken smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices to infuse the potatoes with flavor.
Mix in Cheese and Bindings: Fold the shredded cheese and beaten egg into the mashed potatoes. The egg helps bind the mixture together while the cheese provides a melty, savory center.
Shape the Puffs: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small, bite-sized balls or ovals. Make sure all puffs are similar in size for even cooking.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each potato puff thoroughly in breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative) to ensure an even coating that will crisp nicely when cooked.
Cook Until Crispy: Fry the puffs in hot butter or oil until golden brown on all sides, approximately 15-20 minutes, or bake them on a lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the exterior is crispy and golden. Flip halfway through baking for even browning.

Notes

Use day-old mashed potatoes for improved texture and ease of shaping.
Do not skip the egg; it is essential for holding the puffs together during cooking.
Press the mixture gently; avoid compacting too tightly to keep the interior light and fluffy.
Keep all puffs uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
After frying, drain excess oil by placing puffs on paper towels for a less greasy finish.
For reheating, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 puffs
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs, crispy potato bites, cheesy potato snacks, gluten-free potato puffs, easy appetizer, family-friendly snack