Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Introduction

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a game-changer when it comes to using up your leftover mashed potatoes. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and so incredibly easy to make! These little puffs are perfect for turning an ordinary leftover into something extraordinary. With every bite, you get the rich, creamy goodness of mashed potatoes combined with the irresistible flavor of melted cheese—it’s like comfort food elevated.

I absolutely love making these when I have some mashed potatoes left over after dinner. The transformation is almost magical—what starts as plain mashed potatoes becomes a golden, cheesy snack that’s always a hit at the table. The best part is how simple they are to put together. Just mix the leftover mashed potatoes with a bit of cheese, egg, and seasoning, roll them into little balls, and bake until they’re crispy and golden. They’re the perfect appetizer for gatherings, but I also love serving them as a side dish or a fun snack to enjoy on their own.

These puffs are so versatile too. You can switch up the cheese depending on what you have on hand, or even add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftovers or just want something new to snack on, Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are guaranteed to impress everyone!

Perfect for:

• Transforming leftover mashed potatoes
• Serving as appetizers or party snacks
• Enjoying as a savory side dish
• Adding a cheesy twist to family meals
• Quick and easy meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful combination of cheesy, creamy, and crispy textures that make them irresistible. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Great Way to Use Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes into something new and exciting.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The outer layer is wonderfully crispy, while the inside remains soft, creamy, and cheesy.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these puffs ready in no time.
• Perfect for Parties: They make a great snack or appetizer for any gathering or special occasion.
• Customizable: You can add herbs, spices, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: These cheesy puffs are perfect for picky eaters and kids, making dinner fun and flavorful.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12-15 puffs
• Calories per serving: Approximately 90-100 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 10g, Fat: 5g, Protein: 3g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Leftover Mashed Potato 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
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

Ingredient Highlights

• Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The star of the dish! Use your favorite mashed potatoes, whether creamy or chunky, to create the perfect base.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds flavor and helps bind the puffs together. You can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan.
• Breadcrumbs: These help create a crispy outer texture when frying the puffs.
• Egg: The egg acts as a binder to hold everything together and create a fluffy interior.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley enhance the flavor of the puffs, making them extra delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs:

Prepare the Mixture:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix Together: Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky.

Shape the Puffs:

3. Form into Balls: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the ball on a tray or plate. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up.
4. Optional Coating: For an extra crispy coating, roll the potato balls in additional breadcrumbs or panko before frying.

Fry the Puffs:

5. Heat the Oil: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato balls into the pan.
6. Cook Until Golden: Fry the puffs for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them gently.
7. Drain Excess Oil: Once the puffs are crispy and golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve:

8. Serve Hot: Serve the Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own as a tasty snack.

How to Serve Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve these puffs with ranch dressing, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick.
• As a Snack or Appetizer: Enjoy them as an appetizer or a party snack, served alongside other finger foods like sliders or vegetables.
• As a Side Dish: Pair them with a main dish like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad for a full meal.
• With Soups and Stews: Serve alongside creamy soups or stews for a comforting and filling meal.
• On a Buffet: Place them on a buffet table with other appetizers and snacks, making them a fun and interactive dish.

Additional Tips for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Here are some tips to make your Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs even better:

• Use Room Temperature Potatoes: Make sure your leftover mashed potatoes are at room temperature for easier mixing and better binding.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the puffs in batches, leaving enough space between them so they cook evenly and crisp up properly.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella for a gooey center or Parmesan for a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Add Herbs and Spices: Spice up the puffs by adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the mixture.
• Bake Instead of Frying: If you prefer a lighter version, bake the puffs at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
• Make Ahead: You can form the puffs and freeze them before frying. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry them straight from the freezer (add an extra minute of cooking time).
• Use Panko Bread Crumbs: For a crunchier coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Keep Warm in the Oven: If you’re making a large batch, keep the puffs warm in the oven set to 200°F (95°C) until you’re ready to serve.
• Add Bacon or Sausage: For a savory twist, stir in some crumbled turkey bacon or cooked sausage into the mashed potato mixture.
• Make Them Mini: For smaller, bite-sized versions, form the puffs into smaller balls and cook them the same way.
• Serve with a Salad: Pair these puffs with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.

Recipe Variations for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Here are 10 fun Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puff variations to try:

• Spicy Puffs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Bacon and Cheddar: Mix in crispy bacon crumbles along with the cheddar cheese for a smoky flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a fragrant twist.
• Zesty Sour Cream: Replace the cheddar cheese with sour cream and onion powder for a creamy, tangy flavor.
• Mozzarella and Italian Seasoning: Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella and add Italian seasoning for a pizza-inspired flavor.
• Parmesan Garlic Puffs: Use Parmesan cheese instead of cheddar and add a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Sweet Potato Version: Swap mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, vibrant twist.
• Vegetarian Puffs: Stir in some finely chopped spinach or kale for a healthy, veggie-packed version.
• Buffalo Style: Add a couple of tablespoons of buffalo sauce to the mashed potato mixture for a spicy, tangy flavor.
• Vegan Puffs: Make them vegan by using dairy-free cheese and a flax egg to bind the mixture.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, place the mashed potato balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. Fry straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra minute to the frying time.
• Storage: Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until crispy again.

Special Equipment for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs easier:

• Frying Pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is ideal for frying the puffs and achieving a crispy, golden texture.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the mashed potatoes, cheese, and other ingredients evenly.
• Slotted Spoon: This tool helps remove the puffs from the frying oil without excess grease.
• Baking Sheet: If you’re making a large batch, a baking sheet is useful for freezing or baking the puffs.
• Tongs: Tongs make it easier to flip the puffs gently in the pan while frying.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Essential for measuring out ingredients accurately.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows the puffs to drain and cool properly after frying.
• Shredded Cheese Grater: For fresh cheese, use a box grater to shred your favorite cheese for the perfect puff filling.
• Paper Towels: To soak up excess oil from the fried puffs and keep them crispy.
• Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: An ice cream scoop or spoon helps you portion out the mixture evenly.

FAQ Section for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade mashed potatoes?
   Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but the texture might be slightly different. Homemade mashed potatoes tend to create a fluffier texture for the puffs.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, baking is a healthier alternative! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the puffs in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
4. How do I store leftover puffs?
   Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
5. Can I freeze the puffs?
   Yes, you can freeze the puffs. Freeze them before frying, and when you’re ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
7. Are these puffs suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, they are vegetarian-friendly. However, if you add bacon, they would no longer be suitable for vegetarians.
8. Can I add vegetables to the mixture?
   Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, peppers, or onions to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
9. Do I need to peel the potatoes before mashing?
   It’s up to you! If you like the skin on, leave it on for a more rustic texture. Otherwise, peel the potatoes before mashing.
10. What can I serve these puffs with?
    These puffs are delicious on their own but are great with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or sour cream. They also pair well with main dishes like grilled chicken or steak.

Print

Conclusion

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are an easy and flavorful way to transform your mashed potatoes into a delightful treat. With their cheesy, crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior, these puffs are perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or even snacks. The best part? They’re simple to make and a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!

These cheese puffs are not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can add herbs, spices, or even extra ingredients like bacon or green onions to make them even more flavorful. Whether served at a casual gathering or a family dinner, they’ll definitely be a crowd-pleaser.

Try them today and enjoy a fun, delicious twist on your leftovers! Don’t forget to take a photo of your cheese puffs and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how your delicious creations turn out! Happy cooking!