Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

A Crispy, Golden Way to Transform Simple Mashed Potatoes into an Irresistible Snack

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect combination of creamy comfort and crispy indulgence. These bite-sized delights take humble mashed potatoes and elevate them into golden, airy puffs with a lightly crisp exterior and a soft, cheesy center. They’re ideal as a party appetizer, after-school snack, brunch side dish, or a clever way to use leftover mashed potatoes.

What makes them special is their contrast in texture—fluffy inside, lightly crisp outside—and the rich, savory flavor from melted cheese baked directly into the mixture. Best of all, they’re simple to prepare and require basic kitchen ingredients.

Let’s walk through the method step by step.

Ingredients

3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled and firm)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
2 large eggs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons milk or cream
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or chives
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of paprika or cayenne for a slight kick

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you are using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they are well chilled. Cold mashed potatoes are firmer and easier to shape, helping the puffs hold their structure during baking.

If making fresh mashed potatoes:

Boil peeled potatoes in salted water until fork-tender.
Drain thoroughly.
Mash with butter and a splash of milk.
Allow them to cool completely before using.

Avoid overly creamy or loose mashed potatoes—thicker consistency works best.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or cooking spray. A mini muffin tin helps create perfectly shaped puffs with crisp edges. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular muffin tin, but adjust the baking time slightly.