Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice); 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

January 25, 2026

Updated:

January 25, 2026

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Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something special. These puffs are not only crispy on the outside but also packed with cheesy goodness inside. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy family meal, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese creates an irresistible snack that is simple to make and delightful to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: These cheese puffs come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for a last-minute snack or side dish.
Versatile Flavor: Customize your puffs by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices according to your taste preference.
Kid-Friendly: With their fun shape and cheesy flavor, kids will love these puffs, making it easier to use up leftovers.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover mashed potatoes helps you save money while reducing food waste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive potluck, these puffs fit right in and can be served warm or at room temperature.

Tools and Preparation

To make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Spoon or cookie scoop
Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spills.
Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet ensures even cooking when frying or baking the cheese puffs.
Spoon or cookie scoop: Helps portion out uniform sizes for consistent cooking and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Puffs

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Puffs

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, take a portion of the mixture and shape it into small balls or patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan over medium heat, add olive oil or cooking spray. Allow it to heat up before adding the potato puffs.

Step 4: Fry the Puffs

Carefully add the formed potato puffs to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Ensure they have an even crispness.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once cooked, remove the puffs from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for garnish. Enjoy your delightful Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!

How to Serve Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal or snack. Whether you’re having them as an appetizer or part of a main course, these puffs are sure to impress.

As a Snack

Perfect for dipping: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.
On a platter: Pair with fresh veggies and other finger foods for a fun appetizer spread.

With a Salad

Fresh greens: Serve alongside a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
Grain-based salads: Combine with quinoa or farro salads for added texture and flavor.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Inside wraps: Add puffs to wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of protein.
On sandwiches: Use as a unique filling in sandwiches, adding crunch and cheesy goodness.

With Soup

Comforting combo: Pair with creamy soups like tomato or potato leek for a hearty meal.
Dipping delight: Use the puffs to dip into brothy soups like chicken noodle.

As an Appetizer

Finger food: Serve at parties as bite-sized delights that guests will love.
Garnish option: Top with sour cream and chives for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Making the perfect Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs takes just a few simple tweaks. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out crispy and delicious every time.

Use cold mashed potatoes: Starting with cold mashed potatoes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking; add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy puffs.
Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Bake instead of fry: For a healthier option, bake them at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.
Chill before frying: Refrigerate the formed puffs for 30 minutes before frying to help them firm up.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs pair wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to complement their cheesy goodness.

Mixed Green Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the puffs.
Roasted Vegetables
Caramelized veggies enhance the meal’s flavor profile while adding nutrition.
Garlic Bread
Crunchy garlic bread provides additional texture and flavor contrast.
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and acidity to the table.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn adds seasonal flair and pairs well with cheesy bites.
Baked Beans
The sweetness of baked beans complements savory potato puffs nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Using cold mashed potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes can lead to a mixture that doesn’t bind well. Always use room temperature or slightly warmed mashed potatoes for the best texture.
Skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add necessary structure. Skipping them can result in puffs that fall apart. Make sure to include them for a perfect consistency.
Overmixing the ingredients: Overmixing can make your puffs dense. Mix just until combined to keep them light and airy.
Neglecting seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland puffs. Taste your mixture before frying, and adjust seasonings accordingly.
Frying at too low a temperature: Frying at low heat can cause greasy puffs. Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) for a crispy outer layer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Temperature: Keep in the refrigerator at or below 40°F.

Freezing Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose their crispness.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Yes, you can definitely use instant mashed potatoes! Just prepare them according to package instructions, then follow the recipe as usual.

What cheese works best in Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different tastes.

How can I customize my Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

You can add herbs, spices, or even cooked bacon bits to enhance flavor. Get creative with your favorite ingredients!

How do I know when the cheese puffs are done frying?

Look for a golden-brown color and a crispy texture on the outside. They should be firm when you gently press on them.

Final Thoughts

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to utilize leftover mashed potatoes creatively. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy transforming your leftovers into something extraordinary!