Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Name: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into these delightful cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:28:38.545Z

These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a perfect way to utilize leftover mashed potatoes while creating a delicious snack or appetizer. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with a gooey cheese center
Easy to make with pantry staples
Great way to use up leftovers
Perfect for parties or as a snack

      

Perfect for Leftovers

There’s nothing quite like transforming leftover mashed potatoes into something extraordinary. These cheese puffs not only breathe new life into your leftovers, but they also provide a creative way to repurpose food that might otherwise go to waste. With just a few additional ingredients, you can elevate your simple mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.

Using leftover mashed potatoes means you can save time in the kitchen while still delivering delicious results. Instead of reheating your potatoes, why not turn them into something the whole family will love? It’s a win-win situation that reduces waste and enhances your meals.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or mix in additional ingredients like cooked bacon, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. Want a bit of heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

You can also adjust the size of the puffs based on your preference. Make them smaller for bite-sized snacks or larger for a more filling treat. This recipe invites creativity and allows you to tailor it to your own culinary style.

Great for Entertaining

Planning a gathering? These cheesy potato puffs are perfect for entertaining. Their crispy exterior and gooey cheese center make them irresistible to guests. Serve them as an appetizer or alongside a platter of other finger foods for a delightful spread that everyone will enjoy.

They can be prepared in advance and fried just before serving, ensuring that you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, from tangy ranch to zesty marinara.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Puffs

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, beaten egg, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Puffs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball.

Fry the Puffs

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully add the potato puffs and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve

Remove the puffs from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Puffs

To achieve the perfect texture, make sure your leftover mashed potatoes are not too wet. If they are, consider adding a little more flour to the mixture to help bind everything together. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when formed into puffs.

Frying in batches ensures that your puffs cook evenly and maintain their crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy puffs instead of the desired crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These cheese puffs are delightful on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with the right dipping sauces. Consider offering a range of options such as spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or tangy barbecue sauce to cater to different taste preferences.

For a complete meal, serve these puffs alongside a fresh salad or hearty soup. The combination of crispy puffs with a light salad creates a balanced plate that's both satisfying and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe!

→ What kind of cheese can I use?

You can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.