The aroma of crispy, golden Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs wafts through the air, making your mouth water and your stomach grumble. Imagine biting into a delicate puff that bursts with creamy potatoes and gooey cheese, sending you on a flavor adventure that feels like a warm hug. Cheesy ranch potato dish.
I remember the first time I made these delightful snacks. It was a rainy afternoon, and my friends were coming over for a movie marathon. spicy corn nuggets I decided to whip up a batch, and by the end of the evening, they had disappeared faster than popcorn at a summer blockbuster!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level
- The rich flavors of cheese and potatoes create a delightful combination that everyone will rave about
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they make an excellent appetizer or party snack
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or as a comforting treat on chilly nights
Everyone went crazy for them, and I ended up giving out the recipe like it was some secret family treasure. Pineapple juice cake dessert.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience or make fresh ones for an extra creamy texture.
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Shredded Cheese: Cheddar works wonderfully for its sharp taste; feel free to mix in mozzarella for added gooeyness.
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Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding richness—free-range eggs will enhance flavor.
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Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here; it gives structure without making them too dense.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors—don’t skimp on these!
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Oil for Frying: Choose vegetable oil or canola oil for frying; both have high smoke points.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this apple fritters recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Workspace: Gather all your ingredients and tools: mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a frying pan. Having everything ready makes cooking so much smoother.
Create the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, and flour. Mix until well blended; it should be sticky yet manageable.
Shape the Puffs: With wet hands (to prevent sticking), form small balls from the mixture—about the size of golf balls works perfectly. This step can get messy but trust me; it’s worth it.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour enough oil to cover the bottom. Wait until it shimmers—this means it’s ready!
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place puffs in hot oil. Fry each side until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side. The smell will be intoxicating!
Drain and Serve : Once fried to perfection, remove puffs with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while they’re still warm and crispy!
Now you’re ready to dive into these cheesy delights! Enjoy every bite as they melt in your mouth—just try not to burn your tongue because you’ll want more! cheesy meatball casserole.
You Must Know
- Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes
- These little bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them perfect for any occasion
- The cheesy goodness will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by whipping up your mashed potatoes and letting them cool slightly. Next, mix in cheese and seasonings, then shape and fry or bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures a fluffy interior with a crispy exterior.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheese varieties for different flavors, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack. You can also add herbs or spices like garlic powder or chives to elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for optimal crispiness. For more inspiration, check out this smoked mac and cheese recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your mashed potatoes smooth by avoiding lumps, which can ruin the texture
- Use freshly grated cheese for a stronger flavor compared to pre-shredded options
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents sogginess and enhances crispiness
When I first made these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, my family devoured them within minutes! Their laughter and smiles reminded me why I love cooking so much—food brings us together.
FAQ
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work great and save you time.
What type of cheese is best for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option; just ensure they are crispy enough before serving.

Delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings (10 puffs) 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible crunch of these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, a delightful snack that combines creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese into golden, crispy bites. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, these versatile puffs are sure to impress family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions, even beginner cooks can create these savory treats that are bound to disappear quickly from your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by gathering ingredients and tools.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, and flour until well combined.
- With wet hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized puffs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Fry the puffs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels; serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg