Crispy on the outside, irresistibly fluffy on the inside, and loaded with gooey cheese and fresh herbs—these Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs are proof that leftovers can become something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re serving them as a savory snack, a side dish for dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party bite, these golden little puffs deliver big on comfort and flavor.
💌 Want this recipe sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe below to get our most delicious recipes delivered fresh every week!
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs
Let’s be honest—mashed potatoes are already amazing. But turn them into puffs? That’s next-level magic! Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Zero waste! A brilliant way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
- So simple. You only need a handful of basic ingredients.
- Golden and crispy. The exterior bakes to a light, crunchy perfection.
- Comfort food reinvented. Cheesy, herby, and so satisfying—every bite melts in your mouth.
The smell when these are baking? Absolutely incredible. It’s like a cozy hug wafting through your kitchen!
What Do They Taste Like?
Imagine the creaminess of mashed potatoes, the rich tang of cheddar and Parmesan, and the freshness of chopped chives—all wrapped in a light, crispy shell. They’re savory, slightly garlicky, and cheesy in the best possible way. Each puff practically begs to be dipped into sour cream, ranch, or a spicy aioli!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Budget-friendly and family-approved
- Easy to prep ahead of time
- Freezer-friendly for later
- Perfect for kids and adults alike
These puffs transform humble leftovers into something you’d proudly serve at a party—or just enjoy in your comfiest pajamas on a Tuesday night!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers work perfectly!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Muffin tin (mini or regular)
- Non-stick spray or silicone liners
- Oven
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- Cheese options: Try mozzarella for stretch or pepper jack for a kick.
- Herbs: Swap chives for parsley, dill, or green onions.
- Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or caramelized onions.
- Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
How to Make Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix all ingredients—mashed potatoes, cheeses, eggs, flour, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—in a large bowl until smooth.
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.
- Cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!
What to Serve With These Puffs
- Grilled or roasted chicken
- Tomato soup or creamy mushroom soup
- Fresh green salad
- Sour cream or spicy dipping sauce
They also make the perfect brunch addition alongside scrambled eggs and bacon!
Tips for Perfect Potato Puffs
- Use stiff mashed potatoes (not too runny).
- Don’t overmix—just combine until smooth.
- If your potatoes are cold from the fridge, warm them slightly before mixing.
- For extra crispiness, bake a few minutes longer or broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Once cooled, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag or container (up to 2 months).
- Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry until hot and crisp again.
General Info
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: About 35 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Mix the batter and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
You can, but make sure they’re thick and well-seasoned for the best texture.
Do they taste good cold?
They’re best warm, but still tasty chilled as a grab-and-go snack!
Conclusion
There’s something so satisfying about turning simple leftovers into something new and crave-worthy. These Cheesy Herb Mashed Potato Puffs are comfort food reinvented—crispy, cheesy, and impossible to stop eating.
Try them once, and you’ll never let mashed potatoes go to waste again!
💬 Join the Conversation!
If you make these puffs, I’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo and tag us on Pinterest or leave a comment below with your thoughts and tips.
Nutritional Information (Per Puff)
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
Leave a Reply