Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Published: January 26, 2026

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheese inside adds a rich flavor that elevates the humble mashed potato.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste.
Waste Not, Want Not: A delicious solution for using up leftover mashed potatoes without letting them go to waste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Spoon or spatula
Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
Baking sheet: Perfect for achieving that crispy texture when baking or frying the puffs.
Spoon or spatula: Essential for mixing and shaping your puffs without damaging them.
Frying pan: Ideal for frying the puffs to golden perfection, ensuring they are crispy on the outside.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Puffs

2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your leftover mashed potatoes are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The leftover mashed potatoes.
2. Shredded cheese of your choice.
3. Breadcrumbs.
4. Egg.
5. Garlic powder and onion powder.
6. Optional parsley, salt, and pepper.

Use a spoon or spatula to mix until everything is well combined; it should form a cohesive mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Take small amounts of the mixture and shape them into balls or patties according to your preference. Aim for about 1-2 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Fry the Puffs

In a frying pan over medium heat, add olive oil or cooking spray. Once hot:
1. Carefully place each shaped puff into the pan.
2. Fry until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Flip and fry until both sides are crispy.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, remove the puffs from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm as an appetizer or snack alongside your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite of these delicious Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!

How to Serve Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are versatile and can be served in various ways to please your taste buds. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, these delightful bites can elevate any dining experience.

As an Appetizer

Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for a tasty starter.

With a Fresh Salad

Pair them with a light salad to balance out the richness of the cheese puffs, adding freshness and texture.

On a Charcuterie Board

Include them on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and fresh fruits for a fun and interactive snack experience.

As a Side Dish

Use them as a side dish to complement grilled chicken or beef dishes, adding delicious flavor and texture to your plate.

In a Wrap

Combine them in a wrap with greens and your favorite sauce for a quick and satisfying meal option.

For Game Day Snacks

Present them at your next game day gathering as finger foods that everyone will enjoy.

How to Perfect Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

To make the best Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, follow these simple tips that will ensure they come out crispy and flavorful every time.

Use cold mashed potatoes – Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better during cooking, resulting in perfect puffs.
Add extra cheese – Incorporating more cheese into the mixture enhances flavor and creates an even cheesier interior.
Adjust seasoning – Taste your mixture before shaping it into puffs; adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to preference for optimal flavor.
Fry in batches – Frying in smaller batches ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding in the pan.
Preheat oil properly – Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this helps achieve that golden-brown crispy exterior.
Experiment with toppings – Try adding toppings such as chopped chives or different herbs for added flavor variation.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their creamy texture. Here are some great options:

Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese puffs.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition that pairs nicely with cheesy flavors.
Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds crunch and is an easy way to include some greens on the plate.
Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread offers additional comfort food appeal while enhancing the overall meal experience.
Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad brings texture and complements the cheese puffs beautifully.
Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast that works well with the soft cheese-filled puffs.
Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make for an exciting pairing alongside our cheese puffs.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn on the cob brings summer flavors to your table while providing a fun eating experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful treat, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making them.

Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of cheese can alter the flavor. Stick with cheddar or your favorite melting cheese for the best results.
Bold overmixing: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense puffs. Gently fold ingredients together to maintain a light texture.
Bold improper frying temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Test with a small drop of batter first for optimal frying.
Bold neglecting seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can result in bland puffs. Taste your mixture before frying and adjust as needed.
Bold skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help create that crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step for perfect texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Freeze puffs on a baking sheet for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Label containers with dates for easy identification.

Reheating Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place puffs on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds at a time until warmed through. Note that they may lose crispiness.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and reheat puffs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, we have you covered!

What are Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are delicious snacks made from leftover mashed potatoes combined with cheese and seasonings, formed into puffs and fried or baked.

How do I customize Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

You can add herbs like thyme or spices such as cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like finely chopped vegetables.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead?

Yes! Instant mashed potatoes work well too. Just prepare them according to package instructions before mixing with other ingredients.

How long does it take to make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

From prep to cooking, it takes about 30 minutes to make these tasty snacks.

Final Thoughts

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not only a clever way to use up leftovers but also versatile enough to suit various tastes! You can customize them easily by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card