Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Update : November 25, 2025

Why Make This Recipe

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to enjoy comfort food with a twist. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them perfect as a snack or appetizer. With the cheesy flavor and easy-to-follow steps, these puffs can be a hit at any gathering.

How to Make 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/baking

Directions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.
Prepare Mashed Potatoes: If using fresh potatoes, peel, boil, and mash them until smooth. If using leftovers, reheat them first.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine warm mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and slightly sticky.
Scoop and Shape: Form the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds with clean hands or a scoop.
Preheat Oven or Heat Oil: For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). For frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Bake or Fry: If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment and place the puffs, baking for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. If frying, cook puffs in hot oil until golden, in small batches.
Cool and Serve: Allow to cool on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Serve these cheese puffs warm, with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or your favorite hot sauce. They make a great appetizer at parties or a tasty snack for movie night.

How to Store Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Tips to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker preparation.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
Make sure the dough is slightly sticky; this helps in forming the puffs.

Variation

You can add herbs like chives or parsley to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Another option is to mix in cooked bacon bits for a savory touch.

FAQs

Can I freeze Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking or frying. Just place them on a baking sheet until frozen and then store in a freezer bag.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can work, but be sure to follow package instructions, and let them cool before mixing with other ingredients.

How can I make these puffs healthier?
You can bake them instead of frying to reduce the amount of oil used. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can also cut down on calories.