Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – Golden, Cheesy & Irresistibly Fluffy Bites of Comfort

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – Golden, Cheesy & Irresistibly Fluffy Bites of Comfort

Get ready to fall in love with these Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs — golden on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and bursting with comforting flavor in every bite. These puffs are made from creamy mashed potatoes blended with melty cheese, eggs, and a hint of garlic, then baked or air-fried to perfection. They’re crisp on the edges, pillowy inside, and absolutely addictive. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes — and they vanish fast! Whether served at brunch, game night, or alongside your favorite entrée, these little bites deliver all the cozy goodness of mashed potatoes in a perfectly crispy form.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes preferably cold, leftover potatoes work best
1 large egg
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella, gouda, or your favorite meltable cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch for gluten-free
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for flavor

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk and spatula
Muffin tin or parchment-lined baking sheet
Cheese grater
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven or air fryer

Method

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, cheeses, melted butter, flour, green onions, and seasonings.
Mix until the texture is thick, smooth, and scoopable.
💡 Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too soft, add a little more flour or cheese to help it hold shape.

Step 3: Shape or Scoop

Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin tin or form small balls (about 1½ inches) if using a baking sheet.
For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops with melted butter or spray with oil.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Oven: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
Air Fryer: Air fry for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
They’re done when crispy on the edges and lightly golden on top.

Step 5: Serve

Cool slightly before removing from the pan — they’ll firm up as they rest.
Serve warm with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Bake or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until crisp again.

🥄 Variations

Bacon Cheddar Puffs: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.

Garlic Herb Puffs: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Spicy Jalapeño Version: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.

Broccoli Cheddar: Fold in finely chopped cooked broccoli.

Loaded Potato Puffs: Top with sour cream, chives, and extra cheese.

Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes and add a hint of cinnamon.

Italian Style: Add mozzarella and a sprinkle of Italian herbs.

Parmesan Crust: Roll in grated Parmesan before baking for an extra crispy shell.

Mini Breakfast Bites: Add chopped ham or sausage for a morning snack.

Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and flaxseed egg substitute.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes — just prepare them thicker than usual to hold their shape.

Can I fry them instead of baking?
Yes — shallow fry in oil over medium heat until golden and crisp on all sides.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes with gravy or butter mixed in?
Definitely, just adjust the flour to balance moisture.

Can I make them ahead?
Yes — shape and refrigerate before baking, or freeze unbaked for later.

What cheese melts best?
Cheddar gives great flavor, but mozzarella or gouda creates a smoother texture.

Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes — they’ll be slightly softer but deliciously sweet and savory.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.

Why are my puffs dense?
The mixture may be too wet — add a touch more flour or cheese next time.

Can I add onions or garlic directly?
Yes — sauté them lightly first to mellow the flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely — perfect for parties or meal prep!

🏁 Conclusion

These Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort snack — crunchy outside, fluffy inside, and oozing with cheesy goodness. Simple to make, endlessly versatile, and always crowd-approved, they’re the perfect way to turn humble mashed potatoes into a gourmet treat.

Serve them hot and watch them disappear — because one bite is never enough!