Got leftover mashed potatoes? Don’t just reheat them — turn them into something way more exciting: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! These little bites are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and so easy to make. They’re perfect for snacking, parties, or a cozy side dish. Plus, they help you cut down on food waste — a win-win.
Why You’ll Love These Cheese Puffs
If you love comfort food, you’re going to fall for these puffs. They’re warm, cheesy, and super satisfying. Plus, they come together fast — no fancy equipment needed. Whether you’re making snacks for movie night, whipping up a fun side dish, or using up leftovers creatively, these cheese puffs are the way to go. If you’re a fan of cozy dishes like Chili’s Baked Potato Soup, this recipe will fit right into your favorites list.
What You’ll Need
You probably have most of these ingredients already!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is perfect)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or green onions if you want to mix things up.
How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be thick and a little sticky. If it feels too loose, add a little more flour.
- Shape the puffs
Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
- Bake the puffs
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the puffs are golden brown and crispy. If you want them even crispier, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve
When the puffs are done, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or spicy mayo.
Tips for the Best Cheese Puffs
- Use cold mashed potatoes. Warm mashed potatoes will make the dough too soft.
- Don’t overmix. Stir just enough to bring the dough together.
- Pick your favorite cheese. Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella will make them gooier. Gouda, pepper jack, or even feta are great choices too.
- Customize them! Add bacon bits, green onions, jalapeños, or even cooked sausage for extra flavor.
Fun Variations to Try
There’s no wrong way to make these cheese puffs your own.
Here are a few ideas:
- Add cooked chopped bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Stir in some cooked spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a different twist.
- Try different cheeses for a new flavor combo.
If you love creative potato dishes, you should also check out Hellmann’s Potato Salad for more ideas!
What to Serve with Cheese Puffs
These little bites are super versatile. Serve them as a snack, an appetizer, or alongside your favorite meals.
They go great with fresh salads, soups, or grilled meats. You could even serve them with a simple dip platter at a party.
Looking for more creative ways to use up mashed potatoes? You’ll find tons of inspiration at Serious Eats.
How to Store and Reheat Cheese Puffs
If you have leftovers (unlikely, but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
To reheat, pop them into a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5–7 minutes. They’ll crisp right back up!
Try to avoid microwaving them. It makes them soft instead of crispy.
Can You Freeze Them?
Definitely! To freeze, place the unbaked puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then move them to a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven from frozen. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time and you’re good to go.
They’re perfect for make-ahead snacks, party trays, or even a quick side dish on busy nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can, but real mashed potatoes give better flavor and texture.
Sharp cheddar is awesome, but you can mix it up with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Yes! Just swap the flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
Ranch, sour cream with chives, spicy mayo, or even a basic marinara sauce. You can find even more ideas over at Food Network’s mashed potato section.
Final Thoughts
Leftover mashed potatoes don’t have to be boring. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can make these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs — crispy, cheesy, and totally irresistible. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd, using up leftovers, or treating yourself to something delicious.
Next time you see that bowl of cold mashed potatoes in the fridge, don’t just reheat it. Turn it into these amazing cheese puffs instead. They’re easy, fun, and seriously tasty. Try them once, and you’ll want to make them again and again!