Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Introduction

Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy treat. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these puffs are versatile and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs like chives or parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties about the size of a golf ball. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the puffs for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
4. Step 4: Allow the cheese puffs to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to boost flavor.
• Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Try different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella for varied taste.
• Incorporate finely chopped veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour to make them gluten-free.
• Chill the mixture for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to make shaping easier.
• Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Do not overmix to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
• Shape puffs evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Storage

Store any leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. For longer storage, freeze unbaked shaped puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen when ready to enjoy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Store-bought mashed potatoes are a convenient option and work perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make these cheese puffs vegan?

Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg and use dairy-free cheese to create a vegan version of these puffs.

Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 364 reviews

These Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden brown, and cheesy bite-sized snacks. Perfect as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or snack, they combine simple pantry staples like cheese, flour, and egg with creamy mashed potatoes. Easy to customize with herbs, spices, and different cheeses, these puffs are a flavorful and fun way to reduce food waste while enjoying a comforting treat.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 20 puffs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 large egg

Seasonings

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (chives, parsley), finely chopped

Optional Add-ins

• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for spicy variation)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or corn (for vegetable variation)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, and egg along with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or add-ins. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to maintain a light texture.
2. Shape the Puffs: Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls or small patties. Arrange them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the puffs for 20 to 25 minutes until they develop a golden brown, crispy exterior and are cooked through.
4. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheese puffs cool slightly for a few minutes to firm up. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• Do not overmix the ingredients to ensure the puffs stay light and fluffy.
• Make sure all puffs are uniform in size for even baking.
• If the mixture feels too soft to handle, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping.
• Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and ease clean-up.
• Experiment with different cheeses and spices to suit your flavor preferences.
• Store leftover puffs in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze shaped but uncooked puffs for up to 3 months.
• Reheat baked puffs in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, baked snacks, easy appetizers, potato recipes, cheesy puffs, leftover recipes, gluten-free option