These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a tasty way to use up last night’s mash! They are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and cheesy all around. Yum!
When making these, I always end up eating a few before they even reach the table. Trust me, they disappear fast—everyone loves a cheesy treat! 😋
Plus, you can make them in no time! Just mix your mashed potatoes with cheese, shape them, and bake. They’re perfect for snacks or a side dish. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Use any kind you have, whether they’re creamy or chunky. If you don’t have mashed potatoes, you can mash some cooked potatoes or use sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack works well too. For a lighter option, a reduced-fat cheese is a great alternative.
Green Onions: These add freshness and a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, try using finely chopped regular onions or chives, but use less since they can be stronger in taste.
Bread Crumbs: Panko crumbs offer extra crunch, but any bread crumbs will do. You can even use crushed crackers or cornmeal if you’re in a pinch.
Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using a flaxseed egg or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
How Do I Get My Cheese Puffs Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that golden-brown, crispy top is all about baking time and temperature. Preheat your oven to the right temperature and keep an eye on them as they bake. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking; this helps them rise and crisp up.
- Pack the mixture lightly into the muffin tin to avoid dense puffs.
- Don’t skip the cooling time! Letting them cool slightly makes them easier to remove without falling apart.
- For an extra crispy outside, try spraying the tops lightly with cooking spray before putting them in the oven.
How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- ½ cup green onions, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes to make these tasty cheese puffs, perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, grab a muffin tin and grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking. This is important for making sure your cheese puffs come out easily!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want all the ingredients to be nicely blended!
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, fill each muffin tin cup with the mashed potato mixture. Press down lightly to pack them in, so they hold their shape while baking. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly smooth on top!
4. Bake the Cheese Puffs:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for them to turn golden brown and crispy on top. The smell will be wonderful, and you’ll be excited to taste them!
5. Cool and Remove:
Once they’re done baking, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the cheese puffs cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to remove from the tin without breaking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully transfer the cheese puffs to a serving platter. If you want, you can garnish them with additional chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or side dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for a different flavor. Just make sure it’s shredded or cubed for easy mixing!
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even ground oats as a substitute. Just ensure they can help bind the ingredients together, so they stay puffy while baking.
Can I Make These Cheese Puffs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before filling the muffin tin. Alternatively, you can also bake them and store the leftovers in the fridge, reheating them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
How to Store Leftover Cheese Puffs?
Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
