Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Let’s talk about transforming your leftovers into something utterly delicious! Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect way to repurpose those extra mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy snack or appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds. These little puffs are golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with gooey, melted cheese in every bite. They’re easy to whip up and make an excellent side dish or party snack.

Whether you have a bowl of mashed potatoes left over from last night’s dinner or you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite comfort food, these cheese puffs are a game-changer. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the guilt.

Recipe Summary

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food makeover. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. These puffs are easy to prepare, making them a great option for a quick and satisfying bite.

The crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior make these puffs irresistibly good. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a creative way to use up leftovers, this recipe is sure to impress.

Exciting Story

I first discovered this recipe after a big family dinner, where we had more mashed potatoes left over than we knew what to do with. Instead of letting them go to waste, I decided to get creative in the kitchen. The result? These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs were an instant hit! My kids couldn’t get enough, and now they actually look forward to leftovers, hoping I’ll make these again. They’ve become a staple in our home, especially during the holidays when leftovers are abundant.

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. If you want extra crunch, add the breadcrumbs to the mixture or coat the puffs in breadcrumbs before baking.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each puff.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.

Tips

• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda.
• Freezing Option: These puffs can be frozen before baking. Just freeze them on the baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
• Vegetarian Delight: Add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the potato mixture for added nutrition.
• Bacon Lovers: Mix in some cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use reduced-fat cheese and swap some of the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower to lower the carb count.
• Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.

Closing

And there you have it! Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect way to make the most out of your leftovers, turning them into something crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious. These puffs are sure to become a favorite in your household, just like they have in mine. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, and be sure to check out more of our inventive recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the mashed potato puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Be sure to season them well.

How do I make them crispier?
Adding breadcrumbs to the mixture or coating the puffs in breadcrumbs before baking will give them extra crunch.

What dipping sauces pair well with these puffs?
Ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli work wonderfully as dipping sauces.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape and bake when ready.

What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat in the oven or an air fryer to maintain their crispiness.