Crispy Outside, Creamy Inside
These cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden bite-sized treat! Soft and creamy on the inside with a cheesy, slightly crisp exterior, they’re ideal as a party appetizer, snack, or fun side dish. This easy baked potato recipe comes together quickly using simple ingredients and is perfect for meal prep or entertaining. If you love comfort food with a twist, these fluffy, cheesy potato puffs will disappear fast from the table!
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Servings: 12 puffs
📝 Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or melted butter (for greasing)
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Muffin tin (12-cup)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon or small scoop
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, egg, sour cream, green onions, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully blended and creamy 😊.
3️⃣ Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the mixture evenly into each muffin cup, filling almost to the top. Smooth the tops gently with the back of a spoon.
4️⃣ Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges 🧀.
5️⃣ Cool & Remove
Let cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing from the tin. Run a knife around the edges if needed.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm with sour cream, ranch dip, or your favorite sauce!
💡 Pro Tips
- Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping and better structure.
- Extra crispiness: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Air fry or bake at 350°F for 5–8 minutes to restore crisp texture.
🔄 Variations
- Loaded Potato Puffs: Add cooked beef bacon bits and extra green onions.
- Garlic Parmesan: Mix in ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
- Mini Bites: Use a mini muffin tin for party-size appetizers.
❓ FAQ
Can I freeze potato puffs?
Yes! Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven straight from frozen.
Can I make them without egg?
Yes, but texture will be softer. You can substitute 1 tablespoon cornstarch instead.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely — just make them slightly thicker than usual for best results.