Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a Crispy Twist are the perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something new, delicious, and delightfully crispy. Baked in muffin tins until golden and bubbly, these savory puffs feature a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, green onions, and a hint of crunch that makes them a crowd-pleasing side or appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mashed potato puffs are the ultimate comfort food made portable. They’re crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for entertaining or using up leftovers, they offer all the flavor of loaded mashed potatoes in a fun, bite-sized form. Best of all, they reheat well and are easy to customize.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Chopped green onions
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Egg
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Breadcrumbs
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Butter, melted
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard muffin tin or line with paper liners.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin cups, filling each one to the top. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon to compact the mixture.
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Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
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Cool and Serve: Let the puffs cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully removing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 12
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
Variations
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Bacon Bits: Add crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor.
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Spicy Version: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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Herbaceous Twist: Include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
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Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Gruyère, or a smoked cheese blend.
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Mini Version: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized puffs perfect for parties.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
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Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer until warmed through and crispy.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they are fully chilled and thick enough to hold their shape.
Do I need to chill the mashed potatoes before using?
Chilled mashed potatoes hold together better, making them ideal for forming into puffs.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate the mixture up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving.
How do I prevent the puffs from sticking to the pan?
Grease the muffin tin thoroughly or use non-stick spray or paper liners.
Are these puffs gluten-free?
They are not, due to the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to adapt the recipe.
Can I make this without eggs?
The egg helps bind the mixture, but a flax egg or mashed sweet potato may be used as an alternative.
What can I serve these with?
These puffs pair well with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a zesty aioli for dipping.
Can I use other vegetables in the mix?
Yes, finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated carrots can be added for variety.
Will these stay crispy?
They’re best served fresh, but reheating in the oven or air fryer helps restore crispiness.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, for a slightly sweeter and more colorful twist, substitute some or all of the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes.
Conclusion
Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a Crispy Twist are an irresistible way to elevate simple mashed potatoes into something truly special. Perfectly crisp on the outside with a creamy, cheesy center, they’re a versatile side dish or snack that’s sure to impress. Whether served at a holiday table or as a party appetizer, these puffs bring flavor, texture, and creativity to your plate.
Print
Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a Crispy Twist
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer / Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a Crispy Twist are the perfect way to reinvent leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish. Baked in muffin tins until golden and crispy, these cheesy potato bites are loaded with cheddar, Parmesan, and green onions for maximum flavor and crunch.
Ingredients
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3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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1 egg
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon butter, melted
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
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In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Spoon mixture into muffin cups, pressing down gently.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until tops are golden and crispy.
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Let cool slightly before removing from tin.
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Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
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Ideal for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes.
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Can be made ahead and reheated.
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Try adding crumbled bacon or herbs for variation.
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