Nora
Golden, crispy on the outside, and oozing with molten cheese inside—these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are pure comfort food bliss. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they deliver everything you love about cheesy mashed potatoes but in a fun, bite-sized form. One bite and you’ll fall in love with that creamy, cheesy center wrapped in a perfectly crisp potato crust.
These puffs are not just tasty; they’re a clever way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Imagine transforming simple potatoes into a gourmet-looking treat that impresses family and friends. Whether for game night, holiday spreads, or just because you deserve something indulgent, these cheese-stuffed puffs never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
- Crispy, golden edges with a soft, cheesy center.
- A creative way to elevate regular mashed potatoes.
- Great for parties, potlucks, or even a cozy movie night.
- Perfectly customizable—try different cheeses or add bacon bits.
- Quick to make and guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
What Cheese Melts Best for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
For that irresistible gooey center, mozzarella is an excellent choice because of its creamy, stretchy melt. However, cheddar adds a sharper, richer flavor, while Gruyère offers a more gourmet twist. You can even mix cheeses for a more complex taste.
Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Each ingredient plays a vital role in making these puffs deliciously crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Mashed potatoes form the base, while cheese creates that irresistible melted center. Eggs help bind the mixture, breadcrumbs add crunch, and herbs bring freshness and flavor.
How To Make the Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Mixture
Mix cold mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, and herbs until well combined. This mixture should be thick enough to shape.
Step 2: Shape and Stuff
Take a spoonful of potato mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a cube of cheese in the center, and wrap the potato mixture around it, forming a ball or puff.
Step 3: Coat for Crispiness
Roll each puff in breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy exterior.
Step 4: Bake or Fry
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the puffs until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or fresh herbs, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving and Storing Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
This recipe makes around 12 puffs, enough to serve 4–6 people as an appetizer or side dish. They’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven or fryer while the cheese is still melty, but you can also prepare them ahead.
For storing, let the puffs cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warm and crispy again. Freezing is also an option—freeze uncooked puffs on a tray, then store them in a freezer bag for up to a month. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What to Serve With Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
1. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
The rich, garlicky flavor of this lasagna pairs perfectly with the crispy, cheesy puffs.
2. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting soup that balances the indulgent puffs with creamy, cheesy goodness.
3. Italian Grinder Salad
Fresh, zesty flavors cut through the richness of the puffs, making it a refreshing side.
4. Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes
Double down on the potato goodness for the ultimate comfort meal.
5. Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes
For party nights, pair with these bite-sized pizza cupcakes for a fun finger-food spread.
6. Classic Butter Chicken
The mild spice of butter chicken works wonderfully with the crispy, cheesy texture.
7. Easy Veggie Patties
If you’re keeping it vegetarian, these crispy patties make a wholesome companion.
8. Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts
Tender, creamy chicken adds a luxurious touch to your meal.
Want More Comfort Food Ideas?
If you love these cheesy puffs, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy recipes too:
- Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs – A Bite-Sized Explosion of Flavor
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup – A Hug in a Bowl
- Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes
- Easy Veggie Patties – A Crispy, Flavorful Delight
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes – A Bite-Sized Delight
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack or appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try adding bacon or switching up the cheese? Maybe you baked them instead of frying? I love hearing your creative twists.
Explore beautifully curated comfort food recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite bite-sized indulgence!
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- baking sheet or frying pan
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or chives
- to taste salt and black pepper
- as needed oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix mashed potatoes, cheeses, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, herbs, and seasoning in a bowl.
- Shape mixture into balls, stuffing with extra cheese if desired.
- Roll in breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
- Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes or fry until golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.