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This leftover mashed potato cheese puffs recipe transforms yesterday's side dish into today's star attraction. Crispy on the outside with a gooey cheese center, these puffs make perfect appetizers, snacks, or companions to a simple salad for a light meal.
I created these little morsels after a particularly ambitious Thanksgiving where we had mountains of leftover mashed potatoes. My family now deliberately makes extra mashed potatoes just so we can enjoy these cheesy puffs the next day.
Ingredients
- Leftover mashed potatoes: Form the base and work best when cold from the refrigerator
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds that gooey melty texture everyone loves
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty umami depth
- Green onions: Contribute a mild onion flavor without overpowering
- All purpose flour: Helps bind everything together
- Large egg: Acts as the essential binder
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste
- Bread crumbs: Optional but recommended for extra crispiness
- Olive oil or cooking spray: Prevents sticking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F. This high temperature ensures the outside gets crispy while the inside stays tender. Thoroughly grease your baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent any sticking.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add all ingredients except the bread crumbs to a large mixing bowl. Use clean hands to mix everything together which helps you feel when everything is properly incorporated. The mixture should be somewhat sticky but still hold its shape when formed into a ball.
- Shape Puffs:
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll between your palms to form balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too wet add a bit more flour. For extra crispiness roll each ball in bread crumbs ensuring an even coating all around.
- Bake:
- Arrange the puffs on your prepared baking sheet leaving about an inch between each one. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown exterior. The cheese inside will be bubbling hot and the outside will have a satisfying crunch.
- Serve:
- Allow the puffs to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps them set up and prevents burned mouths from the molten cheese center. Serve with a dipping sauce like sour cream ranch or marinara.
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My grandmother always said that leftover mashed potatoes were worth their weight in gold and these cheese puffs prove her right. My favorite memory is watching my young son discover the stretchy cheese pull when biting into his first potato puff. His eyes widened with delight and he proclaimed them better than regular mashed potatoes.
Make Ahead Tips
These potato cheese puffs shine as a make ahead dish. You can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs up to 24 hours before baking. Store the shaped unbaked puffs covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve simply transfer directly to a preheated oven adding about 3 extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last minute preparation.
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Flavor Variations
The basic recipe provides a wonderful canvas for creativity. Try adding crispy bacon bits and chives for a loaded baked potato vibe. Incorporate diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy Southwestern twist. For an Italian version fold in sun dried tomatoes fresh basil and mozzarella cheese. The possibilities are endless based on what you have in your refrigerator or flavor profile you desire.
Storage Instructions
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating as it makes them soggy. For longer storage freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Reheat frozen puffs directly from the freezer at 375°F for 15 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this dish?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape when mixed with the other ingredients.
- → How do I make the cheese puffs crispier?
For extra crispiness, coat the cheese puffs in breadcrumbs before baking or fry them in a skillet instead of baking.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! Try mozzarella, Gouda, or any cheese that melts well to personalize the flavor.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these potato puffs?
Serve the potato puffs with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli for a delicious pairing.
- → Can I freeze these potato puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Ensure they are fully cooled if freezing after baking, and reheat in the oven for the best texture.