Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
