Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Say hello to the Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe! This delightful dish will not only help you reduce food waste but also provide a cheesy, crispy treat that your family will love. Perfect for a party snack, quick lunch, or side dish, these puffs are unbelievably easy to whip up. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on making some mouthwatering cheese puffs!

What are Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Leftover mashed potato cheese puffs are small, golden-brown bites made from leftover mashed potatoes, cheese, and a few simple ingredients. They are mixed, shaped into small balls or patties, dipped in breadcrumbs, and then baked or fried until crispy. These puffs have a creamy interior from the mashed potatoes and a crispy exterior, making them a fun and satisfying snack or side dish.

Ingredients for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is key to ensuring your cheese puffs turn out delicious. Here’s what you need:

  • Main Ingredients:
  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is a classic choice)
  • 1/4 cup green onions or chives, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg (lightly beaten)
  • Optional Ingredients:
  • Additional spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick
  • Cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor
  • Different types of cheese like mozzarella or parmesan for varied taste

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Making these puffs is simple and involves just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Prepare Your Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions or chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  2. Shape the Puffs: Take a small amount of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. You can also shape them into small patties if you prefer. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped.
  3. Coat the Puffs: Set up a breading station. In one bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, place the beaten egg. In a third bowl, put the breadcrumbs. Dip each ball first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs until fully covered.
  1. Cooking Options: You can either bake or fry the puffs.
    • For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
    • For Frying: In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the puffs in batches until golden brown, around 3-4 minutes. Remove them onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
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Tips for the Best Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

  • Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor. Mixing cheese varieties can create a delightful taste.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in some finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or corn for extra nutrients and color.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the puffs ahead of time and freeze them. Just cook straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These cheese puffs are perfect for various occasions. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • As an Appetizer: Serve warm with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
  • For Lunch: Pair with a side salad for a quicker, hearty meal.
  • As a Snack: Perfect for game day or movie night, these puffs will disappear fast.

Storage Tips for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely, but let’s hope!), here are some storage tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store any uneaten puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
  • Freezing: Freeze shaped but uncooked puffs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Variations of Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Get creative with your cheese puffs by trying these fun variations:

  • Spicy Cheese Puffs: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mix for some heat.
  • Vegetarian Puffs: Load them with your favorite vegetables and skip the bacon.
  • Meaty Puffs: Mix in some cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef for a heartier snack.
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Nutritional Benefits of Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

While these puffs are a treat, they can also provide nutritional benefits:

  • Protein Boost: With the addition of cheese and egg, you get a good amount of protein to keep you full.
  • Fiber: Adding vegetables not only makes them colorful but also adds fiber, which is essential for digestion.

Now, with your leftovers transformed into these delightful cheesy puffs, you’ll look forward to making them again and again. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this scrumptious Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe! Happy cooking!