Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

Introduction

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into irresistible cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and gooey inside. This simple recipe turns kitchen scraps into a delicious snack or appetizer everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional herbs and seasonings (chives, parsley, jalapeños, etc.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs or seasonings. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, but avoid overmixing.
2. Step 2: Using your hands, scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties about the size of a golf ball. Place them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the cheese puffs for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
4. Step 4: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best cheesy flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an herb-infused flavor.
• Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Try different cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar to vary the taste.
• Mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or corn for added nutrition.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes, but allow them to cool and thicken first so the mixture holds together well for shaping.

Can I freeze these cheese puffs?

Absolutely. Freeze shaped cheese puffs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for a few extra minutes until golden and cooked through.

Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 125 reviews

These Creative Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into golden, crispy, cheesy bites. Combining shredded cheese, flour, and eggs with your creamy mashed potatoes, these puffs bake to perfection with a crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful interior. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re easy to customize with herbs, spices, or veggies to suit your taste.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 cheese puffs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Basic Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley)
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced (for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, or corn)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or vegetables you like. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all the ingredients into a uniform mixture.
2. Shape the Puffs: Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small balls or patties about the size of a golf ball. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the shaped puffs on the prepared sheet for 20-25 minutes until they develop a golden brown, crispy crust on the outside.
4. Cool and Serve: Remove the puffs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheesy center and crisp exterior.

Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter to ensure the puffs stay light and fluffy.
• Make puffs uniform in size to guarantee even cooking.
• If the mixture is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make shaping easier.
• Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, and spices to customize the flavor.
• To make gluten-free puffs, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, baked cheese snacks, easy appetizer, potato snacks, vegetarian appetizers, leftover makeover, cheesy bites