Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – Crispy, Cheesy & Perfectly Fluffy
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort snack! Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack – everyone will be asking for seconds!
Equipment
- Baking sheet and parchment paper or silicone mat
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Fork
- Cookie scoop (optional)
- Cooling rack
- Optional: deep fryer or large skillet for frying
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Puffs:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (chilled)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- ¼ cup flour or breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, chives, parsley, or chili flakes
For Frying (if desired):
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs, Parmesan, or additional spices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Oil: Oven to 400°F (200°C) or oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine mashed potatoes, cheese, egg, butter, flour/breadcrumbs, and optional seasonings in a bowl until smooth.
- Shape Puffs: Using a cookie scoop or hands, form uniform balls or bite-sized puffs. Chill 15–30 minutes if needed.
- Coat Puffs: Roll in extra flour or breadcrumbs for crispiness.
- Cook Puffs:Baking: Arrange on parchment-lined sheet; bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.Frying: Fry 3–5 minutes until golden, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels or cooling rack.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with herbs, spices, or dipping sauces like sour cream or ranch.
Notes
- Cheese Choice: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix works best for melty, creamy centers.
- Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs or double coating for crispier texture.
- Flavor Variations: Add bacon, caramelized onions, herbs, or spices.
- Make Ahead: Shape puffs and refrigerate up to 24 hours; bake/fry just before serving.
- Storage: Refrigerate cooked puffs 2–3 days; freeze unbaked puffs up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness.