What are mashed potato cheese puffs made of?

Mashed potato cheese puffs are made with simple pantry staples: mashed potatoes, shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), eggs, flour or breadcrumbs, and seasonings. You can also add ingredients like chives, bacon, or garlic powder to enhance the flavor. For an extra crispy finish, coat the puffs in breadcrumbs before baking or air frying.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for cheese puffs?

Absolutely! In fact, leftover mashed potatoes are ideal because they’re firmer and easier to shape. Just let them come to room temperature, then mix with eggs, cheese, flour, and seasonings. If your mashed potatoes are very soft or creamy, you can adjust the flour quantity to help bind the mixture.

How do I make mashed potato puffs crispy?

To get them crispy, preheat your oven to 425°F or air fryer to 400°F. Roll the puffs in breadcrumbs before cooking and don’t overcrowd the tray—space allows heat to circulate. Bake or air fry until golden brown, flipping halfway for even browning. For added crisp, let them cool on a wire rack instead of a plate.

Can I freeze and reheat mashed potato cheese puffs?

Yes, they freeze wonderfully. After baking, cool them fully, freeze on a tray, and transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen at 375°F until hot and crispy. They stay just as delicious when reheated—perfect for easy snacking or party prep.

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: 5 Secrets for Crispy, Cheesy Perfection

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
Cooking spray or a little oil (for baking or air frying)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (or air fryer to 400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, parmesan, egg, flour, and seasonings until well combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Chill for 15 minutes if the mixture is too sticky.
Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Place on the prepared tray. Lightly spray with oil.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
Let cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite dip.

Notes

These freeze great after baking. Reheat at 375°F until hot and crispy.
Add-ins like chopped bacon, scallions, or jalapeños make delicious variations.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
Best served fresh, but they hold well for party trays and lunchboxes too.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side
Method: Bake, Air Fry
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian