Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. These puffs are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect snack or side dish. They are also incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients.

To make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, all you need is mashed potatoes, cheese, flour, and an egg. The mashed potatoes are mixed with the cheese, flour, and egg to create a dough-like consistency. The mixture is then rolled into balls and baked until golden brown. The result is a delicious and savory snack that is perfect for any occasion.

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and create a new and tasty dish. They are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for any meal. With their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior, these puffs are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients List

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe takes approximately 25 minutes to prepare and cook, and makes about 12 cheese puffs.

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, eggs, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Next, scoop out the mixture using a tablespoon and form them into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Once done, remove the cheese puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or as an appetizer for your next party. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

To make Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that one will need. These include:

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is necessary to combine all the ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk is needed to beat the eggs and ensure they are fully incorporated into the mixture.
• Spatula: A spatula is necessary to fold the mashed potatoes and cheese into the mixture.
• Muffin Tin: A muffin tin is needed to bake the puffs and give them their signature shape.
• Cooking Spray: Cooking spray is necessary to ensure the puffs do not stick to the muffin tin.

Before starting, it is important to make sure all equipment is clean and ready to use. This will help ensure the best possible outcome for the Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
4. Scoop out spoonfuls of the mashed potato mixture and shape them into small balls or patties.
5. Dip each ball or patty into the beaten eggs, then roll them in breadcrumbs until coated evenly.
6. Place the coated potato balls or patties on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot as a tasty appetizer or side dish.

Cooking Process

Oven Settings

To start the cooking process for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, preheat the oven to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for achieving a perfect golden brown color and crispy texture. It is important to preheat the oven to ensure that the cheese puffs bake evenly and thoroughly.

Baking Duration

The baking duration for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is around 15-20 minutes. However, this may vary depending on the size of the cheese puffs and the oven being used. It is recommended to keep a close eye on the cheese puffs towards the end of the baking duration to ensure that they do not burn.

Once the cheese puffs have turned a golden brown color and the cheese has melted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, and the baking process is straightforward and simple.

Serving Suggestions

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Here are a few suggestions on how to serve them:

• Dipping sauces: Serve the cheese puffs with a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard. This will add additional flavor and texture to the dish.
• Salads: Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can be served on top of a salad for a more substantial meal. Simply chop the cheese puffs into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the salad.
• Sandwiches: Use the cheese puffs as a filling for sandwiches. Simply slice the cheese puffs in half and place them between two slices of bread with your favorite sandwich toppings.
• Brunch: Serve the cheese puffs as a brunch dish by pairing them with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
• Party platter: Arrange the cheese puffs on a platter with other appetizers such as chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, and vegetable crudités. This will make for a great party snack that everyone will enjoy.

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Experiment with different serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy this tasty treat.

Storage Advice

Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later consumption. Here are some storage tips to keep in mind:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store the cheese puffs in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Before reheating, let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze the cheese puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the frozen cheese puffs for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat the cheese puffs, preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the cheese puffs on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds on high.

It is important to note that reheating the cheese puffs multiple times can affect their texture and taste. It is recommended to only reheat them once for the best results.

Variations and Substitutions

Leftover mashed potato cheese puffs are a versatile dish that can be customized according to personal taste preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions that can be made to enhance the flavor of this dish:

• Cheese: The type of cheese used can be varied to create different flavor profiles. Sharp cheddar, parmesan, and feta are all good options. For a more intense cheese flavor, use a combination of different types of cheese.
• Herbs and Spices: Adding herbs and spices can add depth of flavor to the dish. Some good options include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor.
• Meat: For a heartier dish, cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage can be added to the mixture. Vegetarians can substitute with chopped mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Breadcrumbs: Instead of using breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko can be used for a crispy exterior.
• Shape: Instead of forming the mixture into balls, it can be shaped into patties or small muffins for a different presentation.

By experimenting with different variations and substitutions, leftover mashed potato cheese puffs can be transformed into a completely new dish with unique flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a casserole dish?

Leftover mashed potatoes can be repurposed into a casserole dish by adding other ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and cheese. Simply mix the mashed potatoes with your desired ingredients and bake in the oven until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What are some creative ways to enhance the flavor of refrigerated mashed potatoes?

To enhance the flavor of refrigerated mashed potatoes, try adding herbs and spices such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to make the potatoes creamier. Another option is to mix in some grated cheese for a savory twist.

Are there any unique recipes for using up leftover mashed potato cheese puffs?

Leftover mashed potato cheese puffs can be used in a variety of recipes, such as topping a shepherd’s pie or using them as a base for a breakfast sandwich. Another unique idea is to crumble them up and use them as a crunchy topping for a casserole dish.

How long can I safely store mashed potato cheese puffs before they spoil?

Mashed potato cheese puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What is the best method to achieve a crispy texture for potato puffs?

To achieve a crispy texture for potato puffs, it is best to bake them in the oven at a high temperature. Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet so they can crisp up evenly. You can also brush them with a little bit of melted butter or oil before baking to help them crisp up even more.

Can you suggest old fashioned techniques for making mashed potato puffs?

An old fashioned technique for making mashed potato puffs is to use a potato ricer or food mill to mash the potatoes. This creates a smoother texture and helps to remove any lumps. Another option is to whip the mashed potatoes with a hand mixer or stand mixer to incorporate more air, which can result in a lighter and fluffier texture.