Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (creamy and lump-free); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1/4 cup green onions (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Posted on March 17, 2025

There’s something magical about biting into a warm Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff. The crispy exterior gives way to a fluffy interior filled with gooey cheese. It’s like a hug for your taste buds. Imagine serving these delightful morsels at your next gathering—your friends will crown you the Culinary King or Queen of Comfort Food.

I remember the first time I made these little delights. My friend thought they were store-bought and proceeded to devour half the batch before I could even plate them. If that doesn’t tell you how amazing they are, I don’t know what will. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are perfect for parties or cozy nights in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are incredibly easy to whip up with simple ingredients
Their crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with a creamy cheese filling
They look stunning on any platter, making them a conversation starter at gatherings
Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or side dishes for any meal

When my family first tasted these puffs, their eyes widened in surprise and delight—definitely a keeper.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Mashed Potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes work best; they should be creamy without lumps for smooth puffs.
Shredded Cheese: Use a melty cheese like cheddar or mozzarella; it creates that irresistible gooey texture.
Eggs: Two eggs help bind everything together while adding richness to the flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating that complements the soft insides.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and color; scallions work well too.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season; these staples enhance all flavors in your recipe.
Oil for Frying: Canola or vegetable oil is ideal for frying until golden brown without imparting strong flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Workspace: Start by setting up your cooking area with all your ingredients laid out neatly. This helps keep everything organized and makes cooking smoother.

Mix the Mash: In a large bowl, combine leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.

Scoop It Out: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, take portions of the mixture and form them into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go along.

Bread It Up: Roll each ball gently in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step makes sure each puff has that crunchy exterior everyone loves.

Heat Up That Oil: In a heavy pan or deep fryer, heat your oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F/175°C). Test by dropping in one puff; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready.

Fry Until Golden: Carefully place several puffs into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.

Now that you’ve made these heavenly Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, it’s time to enjoy their deliciousness. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or simply on their own—and watch them disappear faster than you can say “second helping”. Enjoy every bite.

You Must Know

Cheesy mashed potato puffs are not just delicious; they can be your secret weapon for impressing guests
The crispy exterior pairs perfectly with the creamy inside, creating a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible
Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your mashed potatoes and allowing them to cool slightly before mixing in cheese and seasonings. Shape into puffs and refrigerate for optimal crispiness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheese varieties or add herbs like chives or rosemary for an extra twist. You can even mix in cooked bacon or veggies for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect cheesy mashed potato puffs, ensure your mashed potatoes are not too runny; moisture leads to sogginess
When forming puffs, pack them tightly to maintain their shape while baking
Finally, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying for that golden crunch

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my family gatherings when everyone would compete over who could eat the most cheesy mashed potato puffs. The laughter and playful banter still warm my heart.

FAQ

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for cheesy mashed potato puffs?

Absolutely. Instant mashed potatoes can save time, but fresh ones offer richer flavor.

How do I prevent my puffs from falling apart?

Make sure to chill your formed puffs before frying or baking them; this helps them hold their shape.

What dipping sauces pair well with cheesy mashed potato puffs?

Try serving with ranch dressing or spicy aioli for a delightful flavor combination.