Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate bite-sized comfort food—crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside. Made from creamy mashed potatoes mixed with cheese and baked in muffin tins until golden brown, these savory puffs are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or party appetizers. Every bite delivers a crispy top and a soft, melty center that cheese lovers will go wild for.

Not only are they insanely delicious, but they’re also a smart way to use up leftover mashed potatoes in a whole new way. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, these cheese puffs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that no one will see coming—but everyone will ask for again!

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Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

• Cheesy & Crispy: The perfect texture combo: crispy edges, soft potato center, and melted cheese throughout.
• Versatile: Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun twist on breakfast.
• Leftover-Friendly: A genius way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes.
• Kid-Approved: Bite-sized and cheesy—kids love them!
• Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and oven-baked in a muffin tin—minimal mess, maximum flavor.

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What Kind of Cheese Works Best?

Mozzarella is ideal for that gooey pull, but feel free to mix it up! Sharp cheddar gives it more bite, Gruyère adds depth, and even pepper jack works if you want a little heat. A blend of cheeses often delivers the best flavor and texture. Just avoid very soft cheeses that don’t melt well or become too watery.

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Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These simple, wholesome ingredients create an unforgettable cheesy puff. Each one plays a role in building the perfect balance of flavor and structure.

• Mashed Potatoes: The base—smooth, creamy, and perfect for binding everything together.
• Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella, Cheddar, or a Blend): The star ingredient that melts into gooey goodness.
• Eggs: Help hold the puffs together and give structure.
• All-Purpose Flour: Adds lightness and helps the puffs rise.
• Baking Powder: Gives that airy, fluffy texture.
• Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering the cheese.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Brings out the flavor of the potatoes and cheese.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness on top.

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How To Make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease or spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully blended into a thick, scoopable batter.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Scoop the mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Use a spoon to gently press and smooth the tops.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the edges look crispy. The cheese should be bubbly and irresistible.

Step 5: Cool and Garnish

Let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

This recipe yields 12 muffin-sized cheese puffs, making it perfect for sharing. Serve them as a brunch side, snack, or appetizer. They’re best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still gooey and stretchy.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crispy again—about 5 to 7 minutes.

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What to Serve With Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Tomato Soup

A classic combo! The creamy puffs go perfectly with a warm bowl of tomato soup.

Scrambled Eggs

Serve them alongside eggs for a hearty, cheesy breakfast.

Crispy Bacon

The smoky crunch of bacon is a delicious contrast to these soft, cheesy bites.

Fresh Green Salad

Balance the richness with a light, refreshing side salad.

Roasted Veggies

Carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers pair well with the creamy interior of the puffs.

Dipping Sauces

Try sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for dipping fun.

Fruit Platter

Fresh fruits like grapes, strawberries, or apple slices add a sweet contrast and cleanse the palate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them ahead and reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispy texture. They’re great for meal prep or parties.

2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Definitely. Just make sure they’re thick and not too runny. You want a dense base for the puffs to hold their shape.

3. Can I freeze these cheese puffs?
Yes. Freeze them after baking, then reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for about 10–12 minutes.

4. How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Everything else remains the same.

5. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Try mixing in crumbled bacon, chopped chives, jalapeños, or even shredded carrots for extra flavor.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack or appetizer board so you can come back to it anytime.

Tried them? Leave a comment and tell me your twist—did you go spicy, add bacon, or mix cheeses?

Let’s swap tips and tricks! Sharing your version helps everyone enjoy better bites.

Explore cheesy appetizers, smart meal prep, and snack ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest—you’ll find new favorites waiting!

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Conclusion

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort bite—crispy on the outside, gooey inside, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them fresh, they’re a must-try for any cheese lover. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these puffs bring fun and flavor to every table.

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