When you think of mashed potatoes, you probably imagine a soft, creamy, buttery side dish that perfectly complements roasted chicken or steak. But what if I told you that your humble mashed potatoes could be transformed into golden, cheesy, bite-sized puffs of heaven that are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and bursting with melty cheese in every bite? That’s exactly what Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs deliver—a recipe so irresistible, you’ll never look at leftovers the same way again.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are not just another appetizer; they are the definition of comfort food elevated to party status. Each puff has a delicate crunch on the outside that gives way to a soft, cloud-like potato center infused with gooey melted cheese. They’re perfect for:
- Family dinners when you want to surprise your loved ones with something fun.
- Holiday gatherings as an appetizer everyone will rave about.
- Game nights or parties because finger food this good won’t last long on the plate.
- Using up leftover mashed potatoes without anyone realizing it’s leftovers.
These puffs are versatile, kid-friendly, and so addictive that you might want to double the recipe—because they will disappear faster than you expect.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these little golden treasures, you only need simple kitchen staples you likely already have:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftovers, smooth and seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for extra gooeyness)
- 2 large eggs (to bind and add richness)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds moisture and tang)
- 3 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating and extra flavor)
Optional but highly recommended: a sprinkle of cayenne or chili flakes if you love a spicy kick.