Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temperature)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• Cooked bacon pieces
• Parmesan cheese
• Jalapeños
• Roasted garlic
• Fresh herbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin pan.
2. Mix potatoes and eggs
   In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes and eggs until smooth.
3. Add cheese and seasonings
   Stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, pepper, and green onions.
4. Add breadcrumbs
   Fold in breadcrumbs until the mixture is thick enough to scoop. If it feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
5. Shape the puffs
   Scoop the mixture into small mounds on the baking sheet or into a mini muffin pan.
6. Bake
   Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden on the edges and lightly puffed.
7. Rest and serve
   Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze baked puffs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or air fry until crisp and heated through.

Serving Ideas

Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with:

• Roast chicken
• Turkey or ham
• Steak or pork chops
• Soups and stews
• Eggs for brunch
• Sour cream or ranch dipping sauce

Recipe Notes

• Cold mashed potatoes work best because they hold their shape.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.
• If your mashed potatoes already contain lots of butter and milk, you may need a little extra breadcrumbs for structure.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20–24 puffs

A cozy, cheesy way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a side dish everyone loves.