Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to transform those creamy leftover mashed potatoes into an irresistible, golden-brown treat. With crispy edges, a cheesy, fluffy center, and savory bites of bacon and chives, these puffs are perfect for breakfast, brunch, snack time, or as a festive appetizer. I’d be lying if I said they ever last more than a few minutes in my house!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Transform Leftovers: Turn plain mashed potatoes into a restaurant-worthy snack or side dish with just a handful of pantry staples.
- Cheesy & Crispy Magic: Each bite delivers the perfect harmony of gooey melted cheese and crisp, golden edges.
- Family-Friendly & Fun: Kids and adults both light up when these come out of the oven—everyone loves finger food!
- Freezable & Make-Ahead: Mashed Potato Puffs reheat beautifully, making them an ideal meal-prep or party solution.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mashed Potato Puffs lies in their simplicity—the magic happens when humble ingredients come together in just the right way! Each component brings something special to the table: creamy mashed potatoes form the base, eggs give rise and structure, and a blend of cheeses and savory add-ins deliver flavor in every single bite.
- Mashed Potatoes: Start with chilled leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch. Instant mashed potatoes also work perfectly in a pinch!
- Large Eggs: Beaten eggs are key here—they bind everything together and help the puffs get airy and beautifully golden.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild, cheddar brings richness and that irresistible melty cheese pull.
- Bacon Bits: Real bacon or your favorite bacon bits add smoky, savory depth and a touch of crunch.
- Chives: Fresh chopped chives brighten and balance the richness while adding a pop of green color.
- Pepper: Season to taste for a subtle kick that rounds out all the other flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top gives each puff a salty, crispy crown.
Variations
One of the best things about Mashed Potato Puffs is how easily you can swap in ingredients to match what you have or suit your crowd. No matter your preferences or pantry situation, you can still whip up a batch that’s 100% delicious!
- Veggie Boost: Fold in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or finely diced bell pepper for extra nutrition and color.
- Spinach & Feta: Swap the cheddar for crumbled feta and stir in a handful of chopped spinach for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to give your potato puffs a gentle heat.
- Gluten-Free: These puffs are naturally gluten-free as written—just double-check labels on your add-ins if needed.
- Herb Lovers: Try chopped fresh parsley, dill, or green onions instead of chives for a herbaceous flavor boost.
How to Make Mashed Potato Puffs
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your chilled mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, and chopped chives. Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated—take care not to overmix, but make sure every bite will get a little of everything. Season generously with pepper according to your taste.
Step 2: Fill the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 400°F and generously grease a standard muffin tin. Spoon a heaping mound of the mixture into each cup—no need to worry if the tops are a little uneven. Each portion should fill the tin about three-quarters of the way.
Step 3: Top and Bake
Sprinkle shredded Parmesan over each mound for that signature crisp, cheesy crust. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tops are richly golden brown and you see a bit of bubbling around the edges. Let them rest for 5 minutes so they can set up (this makes unmolding much easier!).
Step 4: Serve Warm
Gently run a thin knife or offset spatula around the edges to loosen, then lift each Mashed Potato Puff out of the tin. Serve them warm and fresh, ideally with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce on the side—watch how fast they disappear!
Pro Tips for Making Mashed Potato Puffs
- Smooth Potato Base: For the fluffiest puffs, use mashed potatoes with minimal lumps—give cold potatoes a quick whip with a fork if needed before mixing in the other ingredients.
- Muffin Tin Prep: Don’t be shy with the nonstick spray or oil—well-greased cups mean the puffs pop out easily with all those delicious, crispy edges intact.
- Oven Rack Placement: Bake your Mashed Potato Puffs in the center of the oven for even color and doneness throughout.
- Rest Before Removing: Let the puffs cool for at least 5 minutes before unmolding—this helps them hold together and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Puffs
Garnishes
Try a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or an extra dusting of Parmesan right before serving for a fun and tasty finish. Crispy bacon crumbles or a tiny drizzle of hot sauce also make Mashed Potato Puffs extra special when you’re hosting a crowd.
Side Dishes
Mashed Potato Puffs pair wonderfully alongside roasted meats, simple salads, or vegetable soups. They’re also a hit on a brunch buffet with scrambled eggs and fruit, or tucked into a lunchbox with cold chicken or ham.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Mashed Potato Puffs on a platter with dipping sauces like chipotle mayo or garlic aioli for an elegant party appetizer. For brunch, stack a few puffs with a poached egg on top for a stunning (and delicious!) center-of-the-table moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover Mashed Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They actually keep their flavor and texture impressively well!
Freezing
These puffs are perfect for freezing—simply arrange cooled puffs on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep happily for 2–3 months and are ready to reheat straight from the freezer.
Reheating
Microwave frozen Mashed Potato Puffs for about 1 minute per puff, or reheat a larger batch in a 350°F oven until warmed through and crisped on the edges (about 10–12 minutes). They come out steamy and as good as new.
FAQs
-
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Mashed Potato Puffs?
Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes make this recipe even faster and turn out just as delicious. Make sure they’re on the thicker side, as loose or watery potatoes will make the puffs less fluffy.
-
Do Mashed Potato Puffs really need eggs?
Yes, the eggs are essential—they help the puffs rise, set, and achieve that light, pillowy texture. Without eggs, the mixture won’t hold together the same way and you’ll just have baked mashed potatoes.
-
How do I prevent the puffs from sticking?
It’s all about generously greasing your muffin tin—really coat the cups with oil or nonstick spray, especially around the edges. Letting the puffs cool for 5 minutes before removing them also helps them release perfectly.
-
Can I prep the mixture the night before?
Yes! You can combine all the ingredients and refrigerate the mixture overnight. In the morning or before serving, just fill your muffin tin and bake as directed—so easy for entertaining or busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a feel-good way to turn simple spuds into something special, Mashed Potato Puffs are your new go-to. I hope you try these soon—your kitchen will smell incredible, and you’ll have a new favorite in your comfort food lineup. Happy baking!
Print
Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 12 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection with a cheesy, bacon-filled center. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Puffs:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Mix mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives together.
- Season: Add pepper to taste.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Grease muffin cups and spoon mixture into each cup.
- Add Parmesan: Top each puff with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with sour cream.
Notes
- Instant mashed potatoes can be used for convenience.
- You can prepare the mix in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Eggs are essential for the puffs to rise.
- Puffs can be frozen for up to 2-3 months and reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 122
- Sugar: 0.8g
- Sodium: 285.9mg
- Fat: 8.1g
- Saturated Fat: 4.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5.7g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Protein: 6.5g
- Cholesterol: 65.8mg
