Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the dreamiest, most irresistible appetizer or side dish you could imagine. Imagine fluffy mashed potatoes loaded up with two kinds of cheddar, smoky bacon, and a handful of fresh scallions, all baked in little golden puffs that get delightfully crisp on the outside and stay creamy on the inside. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are perfect for using up leftover potatoes and transform simple ingredients into bite-sized bites of comfort you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or sneaking one straight from the pan as a late-night snack, you’ll taste why these puffs have quickly become a favorite in so many kitchens.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs so special is how a handful of familiar, easy-to-find ingredients can create something this magical. Each item on this list brings a unique touch, from creamy richness and sharp cheesy flavor to pops of oniony freshness and salty, crispy bacon.

• Cooking spray: Ensures your puffs slide right out of the muffin tin with perfectly crisp edges.
• 2 Cups cold mashed potatoes: The foundation! Leftover mashed potatoes are ideal, as they hold together beautifully when baked.
• 3 large eggs: These help bind the mixture so your puffs stay fluffy and set up nicely in the oven.
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For bold cheesy flavor and a gooey texture that everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup shredded white Vermont cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy tang and fantastic color contrast to the mix.
• 2 green onions, chopped: Give the puffs a fresh, savory lift and a little color.
• 1 teaspoon dried chives: Lend a subtle herby note that pairs perfectly with potatoes and cheese.
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: For irresistible smoky, salty crunch in every bite.
• 1/2 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts flavor with its signature salty nuttiness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all those rich flavors.
• Sour cream (for dipping): The perfect cool, tangy contrast when serving your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Heat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Generously spray a standard muffin tin with cooking spray; this step is your insurance for easy release and those irresistibly crispy muffin edges. Now, your kitchen will soon be filled with the wonderful promise of baked potatoes and melted cheese!

Step 2: Mix Up the Filling

Reserve about 2 tablespoons each of the shredded sharp cheddar and white cheddar for topping the puffs later—that little extra cheese makes a magical golden crust. In a large bowl, stir together the cold mashed potatoes, the remaining shredded cheeses, eggs, and chopped green onions. Season everything with salt and pepper to your liking. Gently fold in the dried chives, Parmesan, and crispy bacon bits. Take a moment to marvel: this is potato indulgence at its finest!

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Scoop the potato mixture evenly into the 12 prepared muffin cups. Pack them just enough that each puff holds its shape, and don’t be shy—they won’t rise much, so you can fill each cup right to the top. Sprinkle on the reserved cheeses, dividing it among all the puffs for that classic, cheesy crust.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are gloriously golden and the puffs feel set. Savor the aroma of cheese and smoky bacon as it fills your kitchen—it’s always a sign something incredible is about to happen.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs stand in the pan for 5 minutes after baking. This helps them firm up so they’re easier to remove. Then, use a dinner knife to gently run around each puff, lift them out, and admire those crispy edges. Serve immediately, with a generous dollop of sour cream for dipping.

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Garnishes

Take your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs over the top with extra chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or even a dusting of smoked paprika. These finishing touches not only boost color and visual appeal but layer on more flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

These puffs pair wonderfully with everything from grilled steaks to roasted chicken or a simple green salad. I especially love them alongside a big pot of soup or chili for cozy comfort on a chilly night—they add substance and a hug of cheesy goodness to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up a party platter by stacking Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs pyramind-style with little toothpicks and cups of sour cream for dipping. Tuck them into lunchboxes, serve them as an unexpected brunch treat with eggs, or even turn them into mini sliders with a slice of avocado or a little pulled pork tucked inside!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs (trust me, this is rare!), let them cool completely before popping them into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack or quick lunch side.

Freezing

For longer storage, let the puffs cool and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 months—simply reheat straight from frozen for a convenient treat.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked crispness, reheat Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in a 350-degree oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through and lightly crisped. A few minutes in the air fryer also works wonders! Avoid microwaving, which makes them a little soggy.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade mashed potatoes deliver the best flavor and texture, instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch. Just make them a little thicker than usual, and let them chill before using.

What other cheese can I use for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Feel free to swap in any melty cheese you love—gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. A mix of different cheeses gives fantastic depth and keeps things interesting.

Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs vegetarian?

Definitely—just skip the bacon or try using a vegetarian bacon alternative. Add extra chopped chives or even bits of roasted peppers for extra flavor and color.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are gluten-free as written, as long as your mashed potatoes contain no added flour or gluten-containing thickeners. Always double-check your other ingredients to be sure.

Can I prepare the mixture in advance?

Yes, you can mix up the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it, covered. When you’re ready to bake, just portion it into the muffin tin, add your reserved cheeses, and bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet tried Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, now’s your chance to experience mashed potatoes in their most fun and flavorful form. Each batch is a celebration of comfort food, loved by both kids and grown-ups. Give them a spot at your table and watch how quickly they disappear!

Print