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A close-up of golden baked cheesy mashed potato puffs in a baking dish.

Classic Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, savory snack or side dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 puffs
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes cold
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack, or a blend
  • 2-3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely chopped (optional)
  • Cooking spray or melted butter for greasing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray, melted butter, or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, egg, flour, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; optionally fold in chives.
  • Gently mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing, to keep the mixture pliable.
  • Form golf-ball-sized puffs with a small cookie scoop or spoons, placing them an inch apart on the baking sheet, optionally flattening them slightly for crispier results.
  • Bake for 18-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, checking frequently as baking time varies.
  • Carefully remove and serve the puffs hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results.