Delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – Easy Comfort Snack Recipe

Posted on July 26, 2025

There’s something about the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese that just warms the heart and soul. If you’ve ever found yourself craving a comforting snack that’s both delicious and easy to make, then you’re in for a treat with these Delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Picture this: golden, crispy puffs on the outside, and when you take a bite, you’re greeted with fluffy mashed potato goodness and gooey cheese. It’s truly a match made in comfort food heaven!

These cheese puffs not only satisfy your cravings but also remind me of cozy family gatherings where food is the centerpiece of love and laughter. Growing up, my grandmother would make mashed potatoes almost every Sunday, and leftovers were a staple. One day, she decided to turn those leftovers into something special, and that’s how these delightful puffs were born. They’re perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a side dish during a festive meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Mashed potato cheese puffs bring a unique twist to classic comfort food. Originating from the heart of many kitchens, these little bites have evolved from simple mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy delicacy that fits perfectly into any meal. They reflect the beauty of home cooking, where leftovers are transformed into something magical.

These puffs are incredibly versatile too! You can whip them up for a game day snack, holiday gatherings, or just because you feel like indulging in something delicious. Plus, they work wonderfully with various dipping sauces, which adds an extra layer of fun. And let’s not forget about seasonal variations; you can add herbs, spices, or even vegetables depending on what you have on hand!

With their crispy exterior and cheesy, soft interior, these puffs are bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s a recipe you can make with your family, creating memories in the kitchen while enjoying the delicious results together.

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s get into the star players of this recipe—those ingredients that come together to create the magic of mashed potato cheese puffs!

Mashed Potatoes: The base of our puffs! For the best flavor, use homemade mashed potatoes made with butter and cream. If you’re in a pinch, store-bought will work, but homemade is always better. They should be smooth and creamy to form the perfect puff.
Cheddar Cheese: The classic choice for its rich flavor and meltability. You can use sharp, mild, or even a mix! For a twist, try pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Eggs: They act as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding richness. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Breadcrumbs: These give the puffs that crunchy exterior. You can use seasoned or plain breadcrumbs, or even panko for extra crispiness.
Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese. Feel free to substitute with chives or omit if you prefer.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning! Don’t skip these; they enhance all the flavors.

When selecting ingredients, opt for high-quality cheese and fresh potatoes. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use non-dairy cheese alternatives for a vegan option or egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce for an egg-free version. Store your mashed potatoes in the fridge for up to 3 days before making the puffs, or freeze them for longer storage!

Equipment Needed

To get started on these delicious puffs, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Cookie Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Ice Cream Scoop or Spoon: To help shape the puffs uniformly.
Whisk: For beating the eggs.
Oven: Preheated to ensure the puffs cook evenly.

While you don’t need anything fancy, having a good-quality non-stick baking sheet can make a big difference. If you don’t have one, just make sure to give it a good spray with cooking oil!

Preparation Method

Ready to make these delicious bites? Let’s break it down step by step!

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the mixture.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If you’re using leftovers, make sure they’re at room temperature. If you’re making them fresh, boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, drain, and mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of mashed potatoes, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Shape the Puffs: Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, portion out the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs to coat all sides. This will create that lovely crispy texture when baked.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated puffs on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. You might want to flip them halfway through for even browning.
Cool and Serve: Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm!

As you prepare these puffs, keep an eye on the color. You want that golden brown hue, which indicates they’re perfectly crispy. If you find the mixture too runny, just add more breadcrumbs until it holds together well!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking is all about learning from experience, right? Here are some tips to ensure your mashed potato cheese puffs turn out perfect every time.

Consistency: Ensure your mashed potatoes are not too wet. If they are, your puffs will fall apart. If you’ve added too much liquid, just add more breadcrumbs until you reach the right texture.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses! Mixing cheeses can elevate the flavor. Just remember that some cheeses melt differently, which can affect texture.
Fry Option: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also fry these puffs instead of baking them for an extra crispy texture!
Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape and bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Watch the Time: Ovens can vary, so check your puffs a bit earlier than the suggested time to prevent burning.

Don’t be discouraged by any cooking mishaps! I’ve had my fair share of puffs that didn’t hold together, but each time, I learned a little more about the process. It’s all part of the fun!

Variations & Adaptations

These mashed potato cheese puffs are incredibly adaptable! Here are a few variations to try:

Herbed Puffs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the mixture for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Cheddar Puffs: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a kick!
Vegetable-Loaded Puffs: Fold in some finely chopped spinach, cooked broccoli, or roasted garlic for added nutrition and flavor.
Different Cooking Methods: Instead of baking, try air frying for a healthier option, or even frying them for a deep-fried treat!

Feel free to get creative! I once made a batch with leftover roasted veggies, and they were a hit at my family gathering. It’s all about using what you have and tailoring it to your taste.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These delicious puffs are best served warm, straight from the oven. They make a perfect snack on their own but pair beautifully with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, ketchup, or a zesty garlic aioli.

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. If you want to store them longer, freeze the uncooked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These mashed potato cheese puffs are not only scrumptious but can also be a balanced snack option. Each serving provides a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes and protein from the cheese and eggs. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies to boost the nutritional value!

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (4 puffs):

Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 8g

They’re great for a quick energy boost, making them suitable for an afternoon snack or a pre-workout bite. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not just a recipe; they’re a way to create and share warmth and comfort with your loved ones. They’re easy to make, customizable, and oh-so-delicious! Whether you’re snacking on them at home or serving them at a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.

Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. I’d love to hear how your puffs turn out, so don’t forget to leave a comment below with your feedback or any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

FAQs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

While homemade mashed potatoes yield the best results, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to prepare them according to package instructions before mixing.

2. How do I keep the puffs crispy after baking?

To keep them crispy, store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave, as this will help maintain their crunch!

3. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and shape the puffs a day in advance, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving.

4. What can I serve with mashed potato cheese puffs?

These puffs pair well with various dips like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

5. Are these puffs suitable for freezing?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked puffs. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.