The cozy comfort of mashed potatoes just got a seriously craveable upgrade! These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are baked in a mini muffin tin until crispy and golden on the outside, with a fluffy, almost soufflé-like center packed with cheesy goodness. Think of them as the perfect cross between tater tots and quiche, but with even more flavor and texture.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes or impress guests with a fun finger food, these puffs check all the boxes. They’re quick, easy, and endlessly customizable with different cheeses, herbs, or even bacon. Serve them at brunch, pack them in lunchboxes, or make a double batch for your next party—they’ll disappear fast!
Full Recipe:
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2 cups mashed potatoes (room temperature)
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3 large eggs, beaten
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
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1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, 3/4 cup of shredded cheese, and chopped chives. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
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Scoop the mixture into the muffin tin cups, filling each nearly to the top.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese evenly on top of each puff.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and set.
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Let cool for 5 minutes before using a butter knife or offset spatula to carefully lift the puffs out.
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Serve warm, garnished with extra chives and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 145 kcal | Servings: 6 servings (makes about 24 mini puffs)
A Delicious Twist on Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, beloved for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They’re a staple at dinners, holidays, and family gatherings. But what happens when you’re left with a big bowl of mashed potatoes the next day? Reheating them often doesn’t do them justice—they can dry out, lose their texture, or become bland. That’s where Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs come in. This recipe transforms your leftover mash into crispy, fluffy, golden bites that are loaded with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
These cheesy puffs are more than just a way to reduce food waste—they’re a standout dish on their own. The combination of creamy potatoes, eggs, chives, and cheese gives them a soft, almost soufflé-like interior with a beautifully browned, slightly crisp exterior. They’re the kind of treat that makes people think you spent hours in the kitchen when in reality, they come together quickly and easily with just a few pantry staples.
The Perfect Balance of Texture and Flavor
What makes Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs so irresistible is their contrasting texture. You get that lightly crunchy top and edges, which give way to a soft, fluffy middle packed with savory flavor. The cheese not only adds richness and depth but also helps create little pockets of gooey, melted bliss throughout the puffs. Meanwhile, the chives bring in a subtle oniony freshness that cuts through the richness perfectly.
They’re versatile too—you can use your favorite cheese or mix in additional ingredients to switch up the flavor. Whether you go for the smooth melt of Monterey Jack, the sharpness of cheddar, or the nuttiness of Parmesan, each version offers its own delicious twist.
Versatility That Suits Any Occasion
One of the best things about this recipe is how many different ways you can use it. These little puffs are incredibly versatile. Want to serve a new kind of appetizer at your next party? Mashed potato puffs fit the bill. Need a kid-friendly side dish that doubles as finger food? You’ve got it. Planning a holiday spread and need something to serve alongside your roast turkey or glazed ham? These puffs will earn their place at the table.
They also make a fantastic addition to brunch menus. Pair them with eggs, bacon, or sausage for a full and satisfying plate. Their savory, cheesy nature means they work well in place of biscuits or toast, especially when served warm with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of herbed butter.
Creative Customization Options
Another standout feature of these puffs is their adaptability. You can add almost anything to the base recipe and completely change the flavor profile while still keeping the delightful texture. Here are some popular add-in ideas:
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Meats: Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage add a protein boost and deepen the savory factor.
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Veggies: Sautéed onions, garlic, chopped spinach, or cooked broccoli not only bring color but add nutrients.
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Cheese Varieties: Try mixing in feta, Gruyère, or pepper jack for different flavor hits. A mix of cheeses also works wonderfully.
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Seasonings: Add Italian herbs, paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top for a unique finish.
By tailoring the recipe to your pantry or your guests’ tastes, you can make these puffs your own. It’s a blank canvas that welcomes experimentation.
Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
These puffs are an ideal meal prep item. You can make a large batch, store them in the fridge, and simply reheat when needed. They maintain their texture well when reheated in the oven or air fryer, making them a go-to option for busy weekdays or school lunchboxes.
And yes—they freeze beautifully. Bake a batch, let them cool, and freeze them in a single layer on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven straight from the freezer. They’ll come out nearly as perfect as the day they were made.
This makes them not only a time-saver but also a budget-friendly option, as you’re putting leftovers to good use and avoiding food waste.
A Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages
It’s rare to find a dish that satisfies both picky eaters and gourmet palates, but cheesy mashed potato puffs do just that. Kids love them because they’re bite-sized, cheesy, and fun to eat. Adults love them because they’re flavorful, indulgent, and nostalgic. They strike the right balance of comfort and sophistication, making them suitable for everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant cocktail parties.
They’re also naturally gluten-free if you’re careful with your ingredient choices, which makes them an excellent option for guests with dietary restrictions. You can also make them vegetarian by keeping the base recipe meat-free, and even swap in dairy-free cheese for a lactose-intolerant alternative.
Perfect Pairings and Dips
While these puffs are delightful on their own, pairing them with the right dip or sauce can elevate the experience. Sour cream is a natural complement, adding a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, cheesy center. For something bolder, try:
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Spicy sriracha mayo
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Garlic aioli
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Ranch dressing
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Warm marinara sauce
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Queso dip
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Herbed yogurt sauce
Set up a dipping bar at parties or potlucks so guests can try different flavor combinations. It turns these simple bites into a fun, interactive food experience.
Serving Tips and Presentation Ideas
Presentation counts—especially when you’re hosting guests. Serve these puffs in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin for a cozy farmhouse vibe, or stack them on a tiered platter for an elegant hors d’oeuvre display. Garnish with extra chives, grated cheese, or even microgreens for a pop of color and freshness.
You can also turn them into a larger meal by serving alongside a hearty soup (like roasted tomato or creamy mushroom) or a crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette. Their richness is well balanced by acidity and freshness on the plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love recipes that are equal parts simple and satisfying, this one’s for you. It takes something as humble as leftover mashed potatoes and turns it into a dish that feels new, creative, and downright gourmet. Whether you’re looking for a way to impress guests, satisfy your family, or just use up leftovers in a fun way, cheesy mashed potato puffs check all the boxes.
They’re customizable, freezer-friendly, make-ahead ready, and loved by all ages. With very little effort, you can bring this comfort food classic into a whole new light—and make it something that people request again and again.
Conclusion: From Leftovers to Legend
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are proof that with a little creativity, you can turn basic leftovers into something extraordinary. They’re crispy, fluffy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors that make them feel indulgent without being complicated.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday meals, these puffs deserve a permanent spot in your rotation. Once you try them, you’ll never look at a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes the same way again. So go ahead—give them a try, and let your kitchen be filled with the aroma of cheesy, golden goodness. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you.