Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the crispy, cheesy perfection of these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! These bite-sized delights boast a creamy mashed potato filling blended with melty cheese, coated in a light, golden crust that is simply irresistible. Perfect for entertaining or a comforting snack, these puffs are sure to impress family and friends with their delightful flavor and texture.

Riley Dawson

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-11T13:04:17.839Z

This recipe is perfect for both a quick snack and a delightful appetizer!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not only a delightful snack but also a fantastic addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a holiday feast, or a backyard barbecue, these puffs will surely steal the show. Their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy center make them universally appealing, catering to both children and adults alike.

Serve them as an appetizer at parties, alongside drinks during game nights, or as a comforting side dish during family dinners. The versatility of these puffs allows you to play around with different cheese varieties and seasonings, making each batch unique and tailored to your taste.

Easy to Make Ahead

One of the greatest advantages of Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is their convenience for meal prep. You can prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time and shape the puffs whenever you’re ready to fry them. This makes them an excellent choice for busy hosts looking to streamline their cooking process without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, you can freeze the prepared puffs before frying. Just layer them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!

Variations to Try

While this recipe provides a wonderful base, feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own flavor profile. Consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky twist, or fold in sautéed onions or spinach for a veggie-filled option. You could also try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Garnishing your puffs with fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving can add a pop of freshness and elevate their visual appeal. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a platter that matches your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the Puffs

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Oil for frying

Make sure your mashed potatoes are seasoned well for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.

Shape the Puffs

Take spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into small balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.

Fry the Puffs

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the puffs in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!

Serving Suggestions

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces, enhancing their flavor even further. Consider serving them with a tangy ranch dip, a zesty marinara, or a classic sour cream. Each option provides a unique flavor that complements the puffs beautifully.

For a complete meal, serve these cheese puffs alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This combination not only balances the rich flavor of the puffs but also adds a vibrant touch to your dining experience, making it both satisfying and appealing.

Storage Tips

To store leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in the oven to restore their crispiness rather than microwaving them.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked puffs in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

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

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Savor the crispy, cheesy perfection of these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! These bite-sized delights boast a creamy mashed potato filling blended with melty cheese, coated in a light, golden crust that is simply irresistible. Perfect for entertaining or a comforting snack, these puffs are sure to impress family and friends with their delightful flavor and texture.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Riley Dawson

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Puffs

  1. 2 cups mashed potatoes
  2. 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  3. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  5. 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  6. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  7. Oil for frying

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 02

Take spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into small balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.

Step 03

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the puffs in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 5g