Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – A Crispy, Cheesy Bite-Sized Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into something new, exciting, and utterly delicious. These golden bites are crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and loaded with melted cheese that makes every bite irresistible. Whether served as a party appetizer, a holiday side dish, or a fun snack, they are guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike. The recipe is simple and versatile, allowing you to customize the flavors with different cheeses, herbs, or even a hint of spice. Unlike plain mashed potatoes, these puffs offer a satisfying texture and rich flavor that make them feel special without requiring much extra effort. Quick to prepare and easy to bake in muffin tins, cheesy mashed potato puffs are a creative and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mashed potatoes
The base of the recipe, leftover or freshly made mashed potatoes provide fluffiness and creaminess.

Eggs
Bind the mixture together, giving structure and a light, airy texture.

Cheddar cheese
Melts into the potatoes, adding sharp, gooey richness in every bite.

Parmesan cheese
Brings salty, nutty flavor and helps the puffs crisp up as they bake.

Sour cream
Adds tang and creaminess, keeping the mixture moist and flavorful.

Chives or green onions
Provide a fresh, savory lift that balances the richness of the cheese.

Salt and black pepper
Season the mixture and bring out the best in the potatoes and cheese.

Butter
Greases the muffin tin to ensure golden edges and easy release.

Directions

Preheat the oven and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup nearly to the top. Bake until the puffs are golden brown, crispy on the edges, and set in the middle. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.

Serve warm, garnished with extra chives or a dollop of sour cream if desired. These puffs are best enjoyed straight from the oven, when the cheese is still gooey and the edges are crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 24 mini puffs, making it excellent for parties or family gatherings. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, while baking requires 25–30 minutes. Altogether, the dish is ready in under 45 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the texture. For longer storage, freeze the baked puffs and reheat directly from frozen.

Variations and Customizations

Bacon Cheddar Puffs
Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist.

Garlic Herb Puffs
Add roasted garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic variation.

Spicy Potato Puffs
Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Loaded Potato Puffs
Top with sour cream, chives, and extra cheese for a loaded baked potato flavor.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Puffs
Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of each puff for a gooey surprise.

Gluten-Free Puffs
Ensure all added ingredients are gluten-free—mashed potatoes themselves are naturally gluten-free.

Vegetable Mix-In
Fold in finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.

Cheesy Trio Puffs
Use a blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for complex cheesy flavor.

Mini Breakfast Puffs
Add scrambled eggs and sausage bits for a hearty breakfast version.

Sweet Potato Puffs
Swap mashed potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes and adjust seasoning for a sweeter version.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, this recipe is ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and bake, then reheat in the oven before serving.

Do I have to use cheddar cheese?

No, any good melting cheese such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack works well.

Can I bake these in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, but they will be larger and require a longer baking time.

How do I keep them from sticking?

Grease the muffin tin well or use nonstick spray for easy release.

Can I freeze cheesy mashed potato puffs?

Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven directly from frozen.

Do they stay crispy after cooling?

They are crispiest when fresh from the oven but can be reheated to regain texture.

Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes, substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese.

How do I know they’re done baking?

The tops should be golden and slightly puffed, and the centers set.

Can I add protein to the mix?

Yes, bacon, ham, or sausage can be folded into the mixture.

Conclusion

Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a fun, flavorful way to elevate simple mashed potatoes into something extraordinary. With their crispy edges, fluffy centers, and gooey cheese, they make the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. Easy to prepare, customizable, and endlessly crowd-pleasing, this recipe is a great go-to whenever you want to impress with minimal effort. Whether served at a holiday table or enjoyed as a cozy treat, these puffs are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!