Introduction

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful snack that combines creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese in a crispy, golden exterior. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these puffs are easy to make and sure to satisfy cheesy cravings.

The image shows a stack of two crispy golden-brown potato cakes on a white plate, each with a rough textured surface indicating a crunchy exterior. The cakes are round with irregular edges and have small bits of green herbs sprinkled on top and around them, adding a touch of color. The inside of the cakes looks soft and creamy, with a light yellow color visible where a piece is missing from the top cake. The background is blurred with a mix of dark and green shades, emphasizing the sharp focus on the cakes, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Oil or cooking spray for frying/baking

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients by gathering everything in one place for convenience.
Step 2: If using fresh potatoes, boil until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream until smooth. For leftovers, reheat until warm.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix warm mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Scoop mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer. Bake for 20-25 minutes or fry until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Let cool slightly before serving warm for the best cheesy experience.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add finely chopped green onions or herbs like parsley to the mixture.
Use mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different cheesy twist.
If baking, line the tray with parchment paper and lightly spray the puffs with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

Storage

Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of nine golden baked mashed potato cups in a metal muffin tray. Each cup has a textured, fluffy layer of mashed potatoes with browned, crisp edges and small peaks on top. The potatoes are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, adding a touch of color contrast against the creamy white and golden brown surface. The background includes a blurred stove, and the entire setup is on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs a few hours ahead. Keep them refrigerated until ready to bake or fry.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still yields crispy, golden puffs when cooked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 55 reviews

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy, and fluffy inside. Made with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a simple blend of eggs and flour, they can be baked or fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re easy to make and delightfully delicious.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 12 cheese puffs 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Oil or cooking spray for frying or baking

Instructions

Gather Ingredients: Prepare your ingredients by gathering all components in one place to streamline the cooking process.
Prepare Mashed Potatoes: If using fresh potatoes, boil them until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream until smooth. Alternatively, reheat leftover mashed potatoes until warm for the best texture.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm mashed potatoes with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and uniform.
Form Puffs: Scoop the mixture into portions roughly the size of golf balls to ensure even cooking and perfect bite-sized puffs.
Cook the Puffs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat oil in a deep fryer if frying. Bake the puffs for 20-25 minutes or fry them until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Cool and Serve: Allow the puffs to cool slightly to set and avoid burning your mouth, then serve warm to enjoy the cheesy, fluffy interior and crisp outer texture.

Notes

You can customize the cheese used—try mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack for a flavor twist.
For baking, use a cooking spray on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
Frying results in a crispier texture but adds more fat; baking is a lighter alternative.
Leftover puffs can be reheated in the oven to regain crispness.
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.

Keywords: mashed potato cheese puffs, cheesy potato bites, baked potato snacks, crispy cheese balls, appetizer recipe