Imagine biting into a golden, crispy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff that bursts with flavor as you sink your teeth into its soft center. These little clouds of joy are not just a side dish; they are culinary hugs that will make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. With each puff, the aroma of melted cheese wafts through the air, inviting everyone in the room to gather around and indulge in this delightful treat.
I remember the first time I made these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. My family was skeptical at first—who wouldn’t be? But one bite later, and they were all asking for seconds (and thirds!). Perfect for parties or cozy movie nights at home, these puffs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy mashed potato puffs are incredibly easy to whip up using leftover mashed potatoes
- They pack a flavor punch that’s simply irresistible
- Their golden exterior is visually stunning and perfect for sharing at gatherings
- Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or side dish, making them a hit at any meal
My cousin once devoured an entire plate of these cheesy delights at our family gathering; he thought they were made of magic!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Use cold mashed potatoes for easier handling and better texture.
- Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese; cheddar adds a sharp flavor while mozzarella brings gooey goodness.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the ingredients together while adding structure to the puffs.
- Eggs: Two large eggs act as a binder, ensuring everything holds together perfectly.
- Bread Crumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra crunch on the outside of the puffs.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those delicious flavors hiding inside.
- Oil for Frying: A neutral oil works best; it allows flavors to shine without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Mixture: Combine leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheese in a large bowl. Add flour, eggs, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Scoop and Shape: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls about 1 inch in diameter from the mixture. Ensure they’re tightly packed but not too compact.
Bread Those Puffs: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step adds that irresistible crunch we all crave when biting into these cheesy puffs.
Heat The Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking—this takes about 5-7 minutes.
Fry Until Golden: Carefully drop in the potato balls in batches; fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per batch.
Drain and Serve: Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy these splendidly cheesy bites while they’re still warm! Each puff boasts an explosion of flavor paired with that delightful crunch that makes them impossible to resist.
You Must Know
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food
- These crispy bites are perfect for parties or cozy nights in, bringing joy with every cheesy, fluffy morsel
- The tantalizing aroma will have everyone flocking to your kitchen in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, boil your potatoes until fork-tender, mash them, and then mix with cheese and seasonings before shaping and frying or baking for golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these puffs by adding cooked bacon bits, herbs like chives or parsley, or even different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a unique flavor experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy puffs, use starchy potatoes like Russets
- Avoid over-mixing the mashed potatoes to keep them light
- Frying gives a crispier texture than baking; both methods can be delicious if done right!
Creating Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs has become a family tradition that sparks joy every time we gather around the table. The laughter and compliments from my loved ones make all the effort worthwhile!
FAQ
How do I make sure my potato puffs are crispy?
Use a hot oil temperature and avoid overcrowding the frying pan for optimal crispiness.
Can I freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, freeze them before frying; just thaw and fry when you’re ready to enjoy!
What type of cheese works best for these puffs?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, while mozzarella gives a wonderful meltiness to each bite.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are irresistible, golden bites bursting with gooey cheese and comforting flavors. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they’ll delight any crowd!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cold mashed potatoes and shredded cheese. Mix in flour, eggs, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Fry the potato balls in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - Add cooked bacon bits or fresh herbs like chives for extra flavor. - Freeze un-fried puffs; just thaw and fry when ready to enjoy.