Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs – The Best Way to Use Leftover Potatoes!
If you have leftover mashed potatoes sitting in your fridge, don’t let them go to waste! Instead, turn them into these crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. These bite-sized treats are golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, making them the perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Whether you’re repurposing holiday leftovers or just looking for a creative way to use extra mashed potatoes, this recipe is a must-try. With simple pantry ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can transform ordinary mashed potatoes into something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Uses up leftovers – No more wasted mashed potatoes!
✔ Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Crispy and cheesy – The perfect texture combination.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or mix-ins.
✔ Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters love these!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
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2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (for texture)
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1 egg (to bind everything together)
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for freshness)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Olive oil or cooking spray, for frying
Optional Add-Ins:
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½ cup cooked bacon bits – For a smoky, savory flavor.
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¼ cup chopped green onions – Adds a bit of sharpness.
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Dash of smoked paprika – For extra depth.
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Parmesan cheese – Mix it in for extra cheesiness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔ Mixing bowl – To combine the ingredients.
✔ Measuring cups and spoons – For precise measurements.
✔ Spoon or scoop – To shape the puffs evenly.
✔ Frying pan or air fryer – For cooking the puffs.
✔ Paper towels – To absorb excess oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Mashed potatoes
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Breadcrumbs
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Egg
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Garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper
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Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky.
Step 2: Shape the Puffs
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Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
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Place each ball on a tray or plate.
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(Optional) For an extra crispy coating, roll the puffs in additional breadcrumbs or panko before frying.
Step 3: Fry the Puffs
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Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
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Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato puffs in the pan.
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Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them gently.
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Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
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Serve the potato cheese puffs hot, with your favorite dipping sauce!
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Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
How to Cook These Without Frying
If you prefer a healthier alternative, try these cooking methods:
🔹 Air Fryer – Preheat to 375°F (190°C), place puffs in a single layer, and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
🔹 Oven Baking – Preheat to 400°F (200°C), place on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Both methods result in a crispy exterior with less oil!
What to Serve with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
These crispy, cheesy puffs pair perfectly with:
🧄 Garlic Aioli – A creamy dip with a hint of garlic.
🍅 Marinara Sauce – A tangy contrast to the cheesy goodness.
🥑 Guacamole – Adds a fresh, creamy twist.
🌶 Spicy Sriracha Mayo – For those who like a little heat.
They also work well as a side dish for:
🥩 Grilled steak or chicken
🥗 Fresh salads
🍲 Soups and stews
How to Store Leftovers
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Reheat in a toaster oven, air fryer, or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
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Freezing: Place uncooked puffs on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations & Swaps
🔸 Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
🔸 Use sweet potatoes – Swap regular mashed potatoes for a sweet and savory variation.
🔸 Try different cheeses – Mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyère all work great.
🔸 Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Just prepare them according to package instructions and use them in the recipe.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why are my puffs falling apart?
The mixture may be too dry or too wet. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, mix in a little milk or extra egg.
Can I freeze these for later?
Yes! Freeze the uncooked puffs, then fry or bake straight from frozen.
Final Thoughts
These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate way to repurpose mashed potatoes into something crispy, cheesy, and irresistible. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re quick, easy, and completely delicious.
Try this recipe and let me know how you like it! If you enjoyed it, share this post, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more easy, delicious recipes.
Enjoy your crispy mashed potato puffs!
