When you have leftover mashed potatoes in your fridge, you might wonder what to do with them. Rather than letting them sit unused, why not transform them into a delightful, crispy, and cheesy snack? Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect way to turn your leftovers into something even more delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can create the perfect savory snack or side dish.
These cheesy puffs are loaded with flavor and are incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes from a big dinner or just want a fun, flavorful bite to enjoy, these cheese puffs are sure to satisfy everyone in your household.
Why You’ll Love These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
The combination of mashed potatoes and cheese creates a rich, creamy filling that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Not only are these cheese puffs an excellent way to repurpose leftovers, but they are also super versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish at your next meal. Plus, they’re so simple to make, requiring just a handful of common ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
Not only that, but these puffs are ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, a family dinner, or just need a quick and easy snack. Plus, these puffs are customizable! You can add your favorite seasonings, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs, or toss in some fresh herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
This recipe uses basic ingredients that come together to create a crispy, cheesy delight. Here’s a look at the main components you’ll need for the mashed potato cheese puffs:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
The star of this recipe, mashed potatoes brings a soft, creamy base to the puffs. Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this because they already have a lot of flavor and the right consistency. - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
The sharpness and creaminess of cheddar cheese provide the perfect melt and flavor to these puffs. If you prefer, you can use any other cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds an extra layer of savory, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses beautifully. It gives the puffs an added richness. - 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)
Chives add a touch of color and freshness to the cheese puffs. Plus, they bring a mild onion flavor that works perfectly with the mashed potatoes and cheese. - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder is the perfect seasoning to enhance the savory flavor of the mashed potatoes. It adds depth without being overpowering. - Salt and pepper to taste
These basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors in the dish. - 2 large eggs, beaten
The eggs help bind all of the ingredients together, giving the puffs structure and allowing them to hold their shape during baking. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
Breadcrumbs give the cheese puffs their signature crispy exterior. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs. - Cooking spray or oil
Lightly greasing the baking sheet with cooking spray or oil ensures that the cheese puffs don’t stick and bake evenly.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Now that you know the ingredients, let’s dive into the steps for making these tasty cheese puffs. These steps are simple to follow, and the end result is a batch of delicious cheesy potato bites that will have everyone asking for more.
1. Preheat the Oven
To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the oven reaches the right temperature, allowing your puffs to bake evenly and achieve that golden, crispy texture on the outside. While the oven is heating up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil. This will help keep the puffs from sticking while they bake.
2. Mix the Ingredients
Once the oven is preheated, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. The mashed potatoes should be soft enough to mix with the cheese, but if your potatoes are too firm, consider adding a little splash of milk or butter to loosen them up.
This is also the step where you can get creative. If you like a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. For a richer taste, try adding a spoonful of sour cream or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
3. Add Eggs and Breadcrumbs
Now, it’s time to add the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs to the mashed potato mixture. The eggs help bind everything together while the breadcrumbs give the puffs their golden, crispy texture. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. It should be sticky and hold together when you form it into balls or patties.
4. Shape the Puffs
With the mixture ready, it’s time to form the puffs. Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or patties, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The size is entirely up to you, but smaller puffs tend to cook more evenly and are easier to snack on.
Place each formed puff onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out slightly to ensure proper cooking and crisping.
5. Bake the Puffs
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese puffs turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. The edges should be nice and crisp, while the center remains soft and creamy from the mashed potatoes. You can check the puffs by inserting a toothpick to see if they’re fully cooked. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
6. Serve the Puffs
Once the puffs are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These cheesy mashed potato puffs are best enjoyed warm when they’re crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Serve them on their own as a snack or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, ketchup, or sour cream.
Tips for Making Perfect Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Here are a few tips to help you make the best cheesy mashed potato puffs possible:
- Consistency is Key: If your mashed potatoes are too runny, the mixture will be too loose to form into puffs. Add a little extra breadcrumbs to help bind it together. On the other hand, if your potatoes are too thick, add a small amount of milk to loosen them up.
- Flavor Variations: If you want to change things up, try adding other seasonings like paprika, smoked paprika, or even a little grated nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
- Freezing for Later: You can make a large batch of these cheese puffs and freeze them for later use. To freeze, form the puffs and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, you can mix in some cooked bacon, sausage, or even ground chicken to make these puffs more filling.
Health Benefits of Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
While Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are an indulgent treat, they can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Potatoes are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and they can contribute to a healthy diet when prepared without excessive fat or unhealthy additives.
Using whole-grain breadcrumbs and adding fresh herbs like chives can boost the nutritional value of the dish. Plus, you can make these puffs a bit lighter by opting for low-fat cheese and using a baking method instead of frying them.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you’re a fan of cheesy, savory dishes, you’ll love these recipes as well:
- Cheesy Potato Side – A creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
- Parmesan Garlic Pizza Rolls – Deliciously cheesy and packed with garlic flavor, these pizza rolls are perfect for snacking.
- Cheesy BBQ Bacon Bomb Bites – These bite-sized BBQ bacon bombs are the ultimate cheesy, savory treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to do with leftover mashed potato puffs?
Leftover mashed potato puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be easily reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.
How do you make cheesy mashed potato puffs?
Making cheesy mashed potato puffs is simple! Start by combining leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and seasonings. Add beaten eggs and breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside. These puffs are the perfect way to transform leftovers into a delicious snack!
Can you eat 5-day-old mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can eat mashed potatoes that are 5 days old as long as they’ve been stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or unusual texture. If they seem fine, reheat them thoroughly before consuming.
Can you reheat cheesy mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! To reheat cheesy mashed potatoes, simply microwave them or warm them on the stove over low heat. You might need to add a little milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. If you prefer a crispy edge, consider reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This will give them a lovely golden crust while keeping the inside creamy and cheesy.
Conclusion
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a fantastic way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful snack or side dish. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, creamy center, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering. Not only are they a great way to reduce food waste, but they also offer endless opportunities for customization with your favorite cheeses, seasonings, and add-ins. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a savory snack, or alongside your main course, these cheese puffs will always impress. Give them a try, and you’ll soon find them becoming a regular favorite in your kitchen!
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How to Make Crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy delights with these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Perfect for a savory snack or side dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chives (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into 1-2 inch balls or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Add extra seasonings like paprika or onion powder for more flavor.
- These puffs can be frozen before baking. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer and bake for 5-10 extra minutes.
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too watery, as this may affect the texture of the puffs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, Potato Cheese Bites, Crispy Potato Puffs, Leftover Potato Recipe