Name: Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs

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Introduction

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a golden, cheesy snack. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for parties or a comforting appetizer.

A white round plate holds five small cheese bread balls with a golden-brown crispy outside. One cheese bread ball is broken open in front, showing a soft, gooey, and cheesy inside with melted cheese strands stretching between the parts. Steam rises from the warm cheese breads against a plain, out-of-focus background. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands or a spoon.
Step 4: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated on all sides.
Step 5: Place the coated balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like chives or parsley to the potato mixture before shaping.
Use different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist on the classic cheddar flavor.
If you prefer a crispier texture, lightly spray the puffs with cooking oil before baking.
To make these gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of six golden-brown fried cheese balls stacked on a white plate, with one ball in the front broken open to show melted, stretchy cheese inside. The outside is crispy with a textured, rough surface and a golden crust, while the inside is soft and creamy white. The plate sits on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes, but it’s best if they are cooled and slightly firm to help hold the shape of the puffs.

Can these puffs be frozen?

Absolutely. Freeze the formed, breadcrumb-coated puffs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.