Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491252H17M19S
Total time: PT-491252H17M19S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup milk; 2 green onions, chopped; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Crispy Bacon Bits – For a smoky, indulgent twist; Chopped Herbs – Parsley, thyme, or chives for extra freshness; Paprika or Cayenne Pepper – For a touch of heat or smokiness

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Introduction

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful way to transform simple mashed potatoes into crispy, golden bites of comfort. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these puffs combine creamy potatoes with sharp cheddar and savory Parmesan for irresistible flavor.

The image shows two cheese-stuffed potato puffs on a white plate against a white marbled background. The bottom puff is round with a golden-brown crispy crust that has orange and dark brown melted cheese patches, sprinkled with small green parsley leaves. On top sits a slightly smaller puff, broken open in the middle to reveal a soft, creamy white potato inside with melted, stretchy cheese dripping down. The same cheese and parsley topping can be seen on this upper puff as well. The background is blurred with a green color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
2 green onions, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or standard muffin tin with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is thick and creamy.
Step 3: Scoop the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. Use a spoon or small ice cream scoop for even portions.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle a little more cheddar or Parmesan on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Let the puffs cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before carefully removing them with a fork or small spatula. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, indulgent twist.
Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for extra freshness.
Sprinkle paprika or cayenne pepper into the mixture for a subtle heat or smoky flavor.
If the mixture feels too loose, add a little extra cheese or a tablespoon of flour to help bind it.

Storage

Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness, or warm in the microwave for a softer texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of several golden brown cheese muffins in a dark muffin pan, placed on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture underneath. Each muffin has a crispy, slightly browned top layer with small bubbles and is garnished with fresh green chopped herbs. One muffin is being lifted out with a metal spatula, revealing its soft, moist, and fluffy inside with a light yellow color and airy texture. The background includes a white cloth with scattered green herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly and can save time while still delivering great flavor and texture.

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and scoop it into the muffin tin, then refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.