Description

Golden, crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food snack or side dish. Made with leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and a few simple ingredients, these little puffs are baked or air-fried to perfection. They’re great for parties, after-school snacks, or a fun way to use up mashed potatoes in a brand-new form.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Cheese Puffs:

2 cups cold mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made and cooled)
1 large egg
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup flour or breadcrumbs (if needed, to firm up the dough)

For the Coating:

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking or air frying)

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup chopped cooked turkey bacon or turkey sausage
½ tsp smoked paprika or red pepper flakes
¼ cup cooked corn or diced bell pepper for texture

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with oil.

Step 2: Make the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix until fully combined.
If the mixture is too soft to hold its shape, stir in flour or breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time until it firms up slightly.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
Combine breadcrumbs and optional Parmesan in a shallow bowl.
Roll each ball in the coating mixture until fully covered.
Place on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Oven: Lightly spray or brush the puffs with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
Air Fryer: Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Garnish with extra chives or a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.

Notes

Use Cold Potatoes – Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better.
Don’t Overmix – Stir gently to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Chill Before Baking – If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate the shaped balls for 15–20 minutes.
Crisp Finish – Use panko for a crunchier crust, and don’t skip the oil spray.
Add a Surprise – Tuck a cube of cheese inside each puff for a melty center!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American