These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a savory, indulgent treat that I love making when I have leftover mashed potatoes. Packed with cheddar and Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a hint of green onion, they come out golden and crispy on the outside, while staying soft and cheesy on the inside. Whether as a side dish or an appetizer, they are always a hit!
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Add the beaten egg to the potato mixture and stir to combine.
Using your hands or a spoon, shape the potato mixture into small puffs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of each potato puff.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Cheese variations: I sometimes swap out the cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
Add-ins: I’ve added crumbled bacon, sautéed spinach, or even some finely chopped bell peppers for a fun twist.
Vegan option: To make these puffs vegan, I use a plant-based cheese and swap the egg for a flax egg or aquafaba.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: I keep the puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftover ones?
Yes! Fresh mashed potatoes work just as well. Just make sure they are cooled down before using them in the recipe.
Can I freeze these potato puffs?
Absolutely! After shaping the puffs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To bake, just add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
If I don’t have breadcrumbs, I use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even ground oats as a substitute. It still gives a nice crispy finish.
Can I make the puffs ahead of time?
I like to make them in advance and store them in the fridge. You can bake them ahead of time, and just reheat them before serving.
What can I serve these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with?
I serve them with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or a tangy dipping sauce. They also pair well with other appetizers or as a side to a main dish like chicken or steak.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and turn them into a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. The combination of cheese, herbs, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping makes them irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create these golden, cheesy bites that everyone will love.
Recipe:

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a savory, indulgent treat made with leftover mashed potatoes, cheddar and Parmesan cheese, garlic, and green onions. Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Add the beaten egg to the potato mixture and stir to combine.
- Using your hands or a spoon, shape the potato mixture into small puffs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of each potato puff.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
Cheese variations: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
Add-ins: Try crumbled bacon, sautéed spinach, or chopped bell peppers for a fun twist.
Vegan option: Use plant-based cheese and swap the egg for a flax egg or aquafaba.
Storage: Keep the puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
Freezing: Freeze the puffs before baking, then bake with an extra 5 minutes of cook time.
If you don't have breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or ground oats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg