Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Crispy mashed potato cheese puffs are golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with melty cheese tucked into every bite. Made from leftover mashed potatoes, these bite-sized puffs are pan-fried or baked to crispy perfection. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a fun twist on a classic side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 egg
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs for coating
Vegetable oil for frying or olive oil for brushing if baking
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, egg, green onions, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll into balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
If frying, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the puffs in batches until golden and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
If baking, place the coated balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through until crisp and golden.
Serve warm as is or with sour cream or dipping sauce.
Notes
These puffs work best with thick, chilled mashed potatoes. Add crumbled bacon or cooked diced ham for extra flavor. You can also make them ahead and freeze before cooking—just add a few extra minutes to the baking or frying time from frozen. For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the mix.
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/crispy-mashed-potato-cheese-puffs/