Classic Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
These classic leftover mashed potato cheese puffs are an easy way to transform your extra mashed potatoes into a delicious crispy snack or side dish. They are cheesy, savory, and perfect for using up leftovers.
Equipment
- medium-sized bowl
- baking sheet
- heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions optional
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying or baking spray for baking
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar cheese, flour, green onions (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Roll about one tablespoon of the mixture into small balls; this recipe yields approximately 18-24 puffs.
Cooking Methods
- To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), grease a baking sheet, arrange the puffs with space, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- To fry, heat 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy-bottomed pan, carefully drop in a few puffs without overcrowding, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove fried puffs with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving
- Serve the potato cheese puffs immediately while warm for the best taste.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. The puffs can be frozen raw on a baking sheet and then transferred to a freezer bag for later; bake or fry from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.