Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Introduction

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the answer when you need a savory, cheesy finger food that’s as comfortingly familiar as it is crave-worthy. These golden, crispy puffs are anchored by creamy mashed potatoes and rich cheese, delivering every bite with a gooey center and a satisfyingly crisp edge.

Perfect for parties, as a side dish, or even a clever way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite whenever you want to serve something both easy and irresistible.

Why These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Stand Out

The fusion of fluffy potatoes and melty cheese creates a unique texture—airy on the inside with a delightful crunch outside. The recipe’s flexibility means you can switch up the cheeses or add flavor boosters like scallions, bacon, or herbs to suit your taste buds. Simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.

Tips for Creamy, Perfectly Mashed Potatoes

For ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, be sure to use well-cooked potatoes—russets or Yukon Golds work best. To save prep time and achieve a uniform texture, use a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher, Black. Warm milk, butter, and seasoning will ensure your mash is flavorful and fluffy, forming the best base for puffs.

Crispy Cheese Puffs—Oven, Air Fryer, or Skillet

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are traditionally baked but can also be made in an COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey for a crispier finish without excessive oil. Alternatively, use a well-coated nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch for stovetop convenience.

Lining your baking tray with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet makes cleanup a breeze and helps achieve that golden-brown exterior.

How to Serve Your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Serve these puffs hot with a side of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a zesty dipping sauce. Pair them with a crisp salad for lunch or as an accompaniment to roasted meats or grilled veggies during dinnertime. They reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer, making them an ideal make-ahead snack for any occasion.

Nutritional Info and Portions

This recipe yields around 20 puffs, depending on the size of your scoops—generously serving 4 to 6 as a side or appetizer. Each puff contains about 70–90 calories, with protein and carbs balanced by a hearty dose of calcium from the cheese.

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: Flavor-Packed, Easy, and Crowd-Pleasing (Recap)

Easy to customize, bake, or air fry, these cheese puffs are everything you want from comfort food—cheesy, crispy, and loaded with flavor. They’ll be the first thing gone at every get-together.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (or set your air fryer to 400°F). Line a baking sheet with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet for easy removal and crisping.
2. If not already prepared, mash your potatoes with butter and seasoning using the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher, Black for lump-free results.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, flour, scallions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture holds together.
4. With a small cookie scoop or two spoons, form 1–1 ½ inch balls and place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet or into the air fryer basket (use Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs, 8” Square by Baker’s Signature for easy removal).
5. Lightly spray each puff with oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 18–22 minutes or air fry for 10–14 minutes, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Remove and cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chives, cheese, or herbs if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Enjoy hot, melty, and delicious—these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are sure to become a new craveable favorite!