Introduction

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful snack that combines creamy potatoes with melted cheddar cheese. These crispy, golden puffs are perfect for parties or a cozy evening treat.

The image shows two small, round egg muffins stacked on top of each other on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each muffin has a golden-brown, crispy outer layer with visible melted cheese and soft, creamy egg inside. The top muffin has melted cheese slightly browned and bubbly, with small green herbs sprinkled on top for color contrast. The overall look is warm and inviting, with a slightly textured surface on the muffins that shows the cheese and egg mixture inside clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Step 3: Scoop spoonfuls of the potato mixture and shape them into small balls or puffs.
Step 4: For frying, carefully place the puffs into hot oil and cook until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. For baking, arrange the puffs on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and firm.
Step 5: Remove the puffs from oil or oven and drain on paper towels if fried. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quick and easy base.
Try adding chopped herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.
Substitute sharp cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different taste.
For a healthier version, bake the puffs instead of frying.

Storage

Store any leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows two golden brown cheese muffins stacked on a white plate. Each muffin has a slightly crispy, browned top with melted cheese bubbling through. Inside, the texture looks soft and creamy with visible bits of cheese and a few green herbs mixed in. The edges are a bit crusty, while the inside is smooth and cheesy. Some chopped herbs are sprinkled around the base of the muffins on the plate. The background surface has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying or baking.

Can I freeze the cheese puffs?

Absolutely. Freeze the shaped puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the fry or bake time.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 71 reviews

Delicious and crispy mashed potato cheese puffs, perfect as a snack or appetizer. These puffs combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese and are lightly seasoned, then fried or baked to golden perfection for a satisfying bite.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12–15 cheese puffs 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Mixture

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

For Cooking

Oil or cooking spray for frying/baking

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth and slightly sticky dough.
Form the Puffs: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or puffs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Cook the Puffs:
Option 1 – Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently drop the puffs into the oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Option 2 – Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray or brush with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.
Serve: Allow the cheese puffs to cool slightly before serving. These are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crispiness, you can also coat the puffs lightly in breadcrumbs before cooking.
Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too wet; if they are, add a little extra flour to help bind the mixture.
Leftover puffs can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
Use sharp cheddar for best flavor, or experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.

Keywords: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, Potato Snacks, Cheesy Puffs, Fried Potato Balls, Easy Appetizers