Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and packed with gooey cheese. A simple, budget-friendly way to turn cold mashed potatoes into an irresistible snack or side dish.
Ingredients
For the main mixture:
- 2 cups cold or room temperature leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp or medium cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
For the breading (optional):
- 1 cup Panko or regular breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
Optional add-ins:
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Chopped jalapeño or chili flakes
- Minced sautéed onions or caramelized shallots
- Shredded cooked chicken
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheeses, egg, garlic and onion powder, parsley, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and green onions.
- Add any extras and stir until thick enough to hold shape. Scoop with a spoon or cookie scoop, roll into 1–1½ inch balls, and flatten slightly.
- Place on a lined baking sheet; chill 20 minutes if breading.
- For breading, roll each puff in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with a breadcrumb mixture of Panko, Parmesan, paprika, and oregano.